Mean Platelet Volume
Discover MPV levels for platelet function and clotting assessment. Monitor blood clotting health with precision tracking methods.
What is Mean Platelet Volume?
Mean Platelet Volume (MPV) measures the average size of platelets in your blood. Larger platelets are typically younger and more metabolically active, while smaller platelets are older. MPV provides insight into platelet production and turnover.
Why is it Tested?
Doctors use MPV to evaluate bleeding disorders, assess platelet function, investigate thrombocytopenia or thrombocytosis, and help distinguish between different causes of abnormal platelet counts. It’s automatically calculated as part of a complete blood count.
Normal Ranges
Reference ranges for mean platelet volume:
- Normal: 7.4–10.4 fL
Values may vary slightly between different laboratory analyzers and methodologies.
Reference ranges vary by authority. Track yours across multiple standards with automatic unit conversions in LabsVault.
What do Abnormal Results Mean?
Abnormal results are not a diagnosis. Always discuss your results with a qualified healthcare provider before making any medical decisions.
Low MPV
Smaller platelets may indicate:
- Bone marrow disorders
- Certain chemotherapy effects
- Some genetic conditions
- Chronic inflammatory conditions
High MPV
Larger platelets may suggest:
- Increased platelet turnover
- Young platelet population
- Certain cardiovascular conditions
- Hyperthyroidism
- Vitamin B12 or folate deficiency
How to Track Over Time
MPV changes can reflect alterations in platelet production and destruction. Trending MPV alongside platelet count helps evaluate bone marrow function and response to treatments affecting platelet production or lifespan.
Track your Mean Platelet Volume results over time
Upload your lab PDFs and see trends automatically.