Are you on a quest for optimal health and keen to understand the hidden markers in your blood that tell you plenty about your well-being? Learn about the MPV blood test, where specific cells responsible for blood clotting are measured, and your results can unlock profound insights into your body's inner workings. Let's embark on a journey to explore how the MPV blood test can be your ally in maintaining and optimizing your health.
Published in General Health
8 min read · Mar 16, 2024
An MPV blood test evaluates the average size of your platelets, crucial blood cells that play a significant role in blood clotting. Often conducted as part of a complete blood count (CBC), the MPV test aids your healthcare provider in diagnosing various disorders and conditions by providing insight into your platelet size and function. [1]
But what does the abbreviation MPV stand for?
MPV stands for “mean platelet volume”:
Platelets, also known as thrombocytes, are small, colorless cell fragments produced in the bone marrow—the soft, spongy tissue inside your bones. The primary function of these cells is to assist in blood clotting by clumping together, which is vital for stopping bleeding in case of injuries, preventing blood loss, and for healing processes. [2]
For example, platelets gather at the wound site when an injury occurs, creating a cluster (clot) that helps slow down and eventually halt blood loss.
But when should you take an MPV blood test?
An MPV blood test is most often included in a complete blood count (CBC), a common component of your annual physical examination.
The CBC evaluates the quantity of your red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets, in addition to assessing significant characteristics of your blood cells, such as the size of your platelets (the MPV). [1]
You may receive an MPV blood test outside of routine blood work if you have unexplained symptoms associated with platelets, such as bruising, nosebleeds, or other issues that signal problems with how your blood clots.
Symptoms that can indicate the need for an MPV blood test outside your regular health assessments are [1]:
Undergoing an MPV test is a quick and straightforward process, typically completed in under five minutes. This test can be administered in various settings, including one of our CARE practices, at your physician's facilities, a laboratory, or a hospital.
During the procedure, your healthcare provider will take the following steps [2]:
A study from 2011 found an average blood MPV normal range to be between MPV 7.2 and 11.7 fL (femtoliters). [3]
The Cleveland Clinic states a normal MPV blood test is between 7 fL to 9 fL for non-pregnant adults. [2]
But what does it mean if your MPV levels are below that range or even higher?
Your Mean Platelet Volume (MPV) results offer valuable insights into the size and function of platelets in your blood. By evaluating MPV levels, healthcare providers can better understand your body's platelet production and potential underlying disorders (bleeding disorders, etc.) affecting blood clotting and circulation. [1] [2]
A low MPV (mean platelet volume) indicates smaller-than-average platelets in your blood. Biologically, this may suggest a reduced production of platelets in your bone marrow or an increased destruction of platelets in your body. Such a deviation can be a marker for various underlying conditions or disorders influencing platelet production and lifespan. [1] [2]
Potential causes for a low MPV, small platelets, include:
A high MPV (mean platelet volume) signifies that your platelets are larger than average. Biologically, this often indicates a higher turnover rate of platelets, where the body is producing platelets rapidly in response to a need, such as to compensate for platelet loss or destruction. Larger platelets can be more reactive and are typically younger, reflecting an active response by the bone marrow to replenish the platelet count. [1] [2]
Potential causes for large-sized platelets include:
You need to address the underlying cause affecting your platelet volume to bring your MPV levels within a normal range. This may involve interventions that optimize bone marrow health, regulate the body's inflammatory response, or correct nutritional deficiencies impacting platelet production and size.
CARE has curated some general strategies that can help you support platelet production and bone marrow health:
Several factors can influence your blood test results, including MPV levels [2]:
Comprehensive health check-ups at CARE and understanding various biomarkers in your blood are invaluable for your proactive health management.
Insights into your current health status allow you to identify potential health issues or gaps early on.
Understanding the intricacies of the biomarkers in your blood can help you make lifestyle choices to optimize your wellness and vitality. For anyone who cares about their health, a health check-up at CARE offers important support on their health journey.
Elena is an enthusiastic Health Coach and blog writer at CARE, with a passion for holistic medicine and health. Previously, Elena worked for almost five years as a coach leading retreats, workshops, and seminars. These included mind-body therapy: breath work, meditation, and massage; as well as energy force therapy: reiki, and qi gong; and third expressive therapy: movement, writing and support groups. Elena shares exciting articles on the blog, on the topic of where the alternative and traditional medicine intersect with Western Medicine. Elena is also the driving force behind the CARE community. In her spare time, she enjoys hiking, traveling to remote locations and dancing. You might also see her on the lake of Zurich as a coast guard. Join her on her journey to learn more about health and discover the world of preventive medicine! Visit all articles written by Elena!
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