The MPV or Mean Platelet Volume measures the average size or volume of platelets in the blood. It is prescribed when a person exhibits symptoms of bleeding disorders. Thrombocytes, or platelets, aid in blood clotting. Whether they are larger or lower than the usual range, abnormal platelet counts can have life-threatening consequences in addition to other issues. In this write-up, we will discuss what is mpv in blood test, conditions associated with high and low mpv levels, and the factors that affect the results.
What is mpv in blood test?
So, what is mpv in blood test? The mpv blood test is a diagnostic technique that measures the volume and size of platelets in blood. The average platelet size in the blood sample is indicated by the mpv value, which is expressed in femtoliters (fL). Typically, a normal mpv range is between seven and half to eleven and half fL; however, these values can vary significantly based on the reference ranges and laboratory employed.
Little, disc-shaped cells called platelets are essential for blood clotting and controlling excessive bleeding. A complete blood count (CBC) panel, which offers detailed information on different blood components such as red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets, often includes the mpv test.
An MPV blood test is usually carried out by a medical practitioner, such as a doctor or nurse. The test requires collecting blood, and the findings help with the diagnosis of different illnesses as well as the evaluation of platelet health and MPV normal range. The expert makes sure the blood sample is collected and analysed correctly.
Conditions Associated With High MPV
Now that you know what is mpv in blood test, let’s find out the conditions associated with high mpv levels.
1. Myeloproliferative Neoplasms (MPN)
A class of blood malignancies known as myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPNs) are distinguished by the aberrant development of one or more blood cell types, including platelets. The production of unusually big platelets by the bone marrow in disorders such as essential thrombocythemia, myelofibrosis, and polycythemia vera leads to an elevated MPV.
2. Immune Thrombocytopenic Purpura (ITP)
An autoimmune condition known as immune thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP) occurs when the body’s immune system unintentionally targets and eliminates its own platelets. To make up for the increased destruction in this situation, the bone marrow generates younger, larger platelets, which raises the MPV. ITP can afflict people of any age and can be acute or chronic.
3. Inflammatory Conditions
An increased MPV can result from long-term inflammatory conditions such systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), rheumatoid arthritis, and inflammatory bowel diseases (Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis). Increased MPV is a result of the inflammatory process stimulating the bone marrow to release bigger platelets.
4. Cardiovascular Diseases
A number of studies have revealed a link between elevated MPV levels and a higher chance of cardiovascular events, including peripheral artery disease, heart attacks, and strokes. These disorders may arise because larger platelets are more prone to clotting and more reactive.
5. Diabetes Mellitus
Individuals with diabetes are more likely to develop an MPV, especially if they have poor glycemic control. This is believed to be connected to the oxidative stress and inflammatory processes linked to diabetes, which can impact platelet production and their function.
6. Liver Diseases
A high MPV has been linked to conditions such as viral hepatitis, cirrhosis, and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Although the precise process is unknown, it is thought that these illnesses may affect the liver’s ability to control platelet formation and function.
7. Preeclampsia and Gestational Hypertension
Preeclampsia and gestational hypertension have been linked to a high MPV in pregnant women. Although the exact causes are unknown, endothelial dysfunction and inflammatory processes may be involved.
Conditions Associated With Low MPV
1. Bone Marrow Failure
A disorder in which the bone marrow is unable to generate enough blood cells, particularly platelets, is referred to as bone marrow aplasia. This may lead to the release of immature, smaller platelets into the circulation, which would lower MPV. Bone marrow failure can be brought on by diseases such as aplastic anaemia, myelodysplastic syndromes, and specific forms of leukaemia.
2. Lupus
Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is an autoimmune disease that can impact the bone marrow as well as other organs and systems in the body. There are instances where lupus induces bone marrow suppression, which lowers MPV and produces fewer platelets.
3. Hypothyroidism
In certain instances, hypothyroidism, a disorder marked by an underactive thyroid gland, has been linked to a lower MPV. Although the precise process is unknown, thyroid hormones are thought to have an impact on platelet function and manufacturing.
4. HIV/AIDS
People with low mpv might have HIV/AIDS as the infection affects bone marrow and the immune system. Platelet production may be impacted when the illness worsens and the immune system is increasingly weakened, which could lead to fewer platelets and a lower MPV
5. Iron Deficiency Anaemia
Iron deficiency occurs when the body does not have enough iron to make enough haemoglobin, which is the oxygen-carrying protein found in red blood cells. Reduced MPV and smaller platelets can result from this condition’s impact on platelet production.
Factors that Affect MPV Levels
Besides knowing what is mpv in blood test, you should also know about the factors that affect the results.
- People who live at Low-altitude (those living below sea level) may have platelet counts that are greater than normal. Living at high elevations may increase a person’s MPV, which could be a risk factor for heart disease.
- Men with high MPV have been linked to smoking and elevated glucose levels (without a diabetes diagnosis).
- Women who use oral contraceptives have higher MPV.
- A low MPV might result from taking certain drugs, like statins.
Conclusion
Knowing what is mpv in blood test allows us to understand the insightful data regarding the size and functionality of platelets. It aids in the diagnosis of inflammatory illnesses, haematological problems, and other platelet disorders. An abnormal MPV level can help in early detection, diagnosis, and treatment response monitoring by pointing to underlying health concerns.
