Illustration by Laura Porter for Verywell Health

What Is an MPV Blood Test?

While the test alone cant diagnose a disease, it can give important clues when combined with other tests.

Your healthcare provider may order it for a few reasons.

Causes of Low MPV - Illustration by Laura Porter

Illustration by Laura Porter for Verywell Health

MPV results can provide insight intobone marrow activityand potential health concerns.

Is MPV a Tumor Marker?

What Do the Results Mean?

An MPV test alone can’t diagnose a condition.

Possible causes of low MPV include:

MPV results are just one factor in understanding your health.

Getting a high or low MPV test result doesn’t automatically mean you are sick.

Your healthcare provider will consider your results alongside other tests and information.

Getting the Test

Getting an MPV test is a quick and simple blood draw.

Most of the time, you dont need to do anything special before an MPV test.

After the test, you’re able to return to your normal activities.

If you feel lightheaded or notice any bruising, let your healthcare provider know.

Summary

A mean platelet volume (MPV) test is done using a sample of blood.

It shows how big your platelets are.

If the cells are smaller than usual, you have a low MPV.

If they are larger than usual, this is a high MPV.

Various health conditions and diseases can result in abnormal MPV levels.

However, MPV results alone cannot diagnose a disease.

To do this, you will need additional testing.

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