How Long Does An Elevated MCV Value Take To Normalize?

Posted on Wed, 7 Dec 2016

Question: Hello, I have an elevated MCV result of 108. Do I have to stop drinking completely? How long would it take to get back to normal range?

Answered by Dr. Shailja Puri (11 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
High MCV can be due to vit B 12-folic acid def, liver diese etc.

Detailed Answer:
Hello,
Thanks for posting your query on HealthcareMagic.
MCV of 108 fL suggests macrocytosis.
Macrocytosis refers to size of red blood cells.
Macrocytosis is seen in many conditions, deficiency of vitamin B 12 and folic acid being common. Liver disorders can also lead to macrocytosis.
You may get liver function tests and vitamin B12- folic acid level.
In case of vitamin B 12-folic acid deficiency detected, supplements of vitamin B 12-folic acid should be given.
You may reduce the intake of alcohol.
The MCV comes to normal level 10-12 weeks after the underlying cause is removed.

Thanks and take care
Dr Shailja Puri

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Prasad

Follow up: Dr. Shailja Puri (17 hours later)

Thank you for this. I have had liver function tests and they are all well within the normal range which makes me question whether alcohol is the real cause. My doctor took more blood yesterday check for B12 levels.

Answered by Dr. Shailja Puri (18 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Definitive opinion can be given after vit B12-folic acid results r obtained

Detailed Answer:
Hello and welcome again,
In addition to vitamin B12 levels, I would also suggest to add on folic acid levels.
This is because both these deficiencies occur together most of the times.
It is difficult to assure that alcohol is the cause of macrocytosis.
We will hae to wait for vitamin B12 and folic acid results.

Thanks and take care
Dr Shailja Puri

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Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Vaishalee Punj