The mean corpuscular volume, or mean cell volume, is a measure of the average volume of a red blood corpuscle. The measure is attained by multiplying a volume of blood by the proportion of blood that is cellular, and dividing

 that product by the number of erythrocytes in that volume.

MCV stands for mean corpuscular volume. There are three main types of corpuscles (blood cells) in your blood–red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. An MCV blood test measures the average size of your red blood cells, also known as erythrocytes. Red blood cells move oxygen from your lungs to every cell in your body. Your cells need oxygen to grow, reproduce, and stay healthy. If your red blood cells are too small or too large, it could be a sign of a blood disorder such as anemia, a vitamin deficiency, or other medical condition.

If your MCV levels are not in the normal range, it doesn't necessarily mean that you have a medical problem needing treatment. Diet, activity level, medicines, a women's menstrual cycle, and other considerations can affect the results. Talk to your health care provider to learn what your results mean.