 |
| Fig. Megaloblastic anemia showing megaloblastics cells |
An increased MCV can be due to a number of reasons but
careful review of the patient's history and blood smear can narrow the
diagnostic possibilities. The
differential can be divided into two broad categories based on RBC morphology.
Round
macrocytosis-due to abnormal lipid composition of the erythrocyte
membrane. Common etiologies include:
1. Alcoholism.
2. Liver Disease.
3. Renal Disease.
4. Hypothyroidism ("myxedema of
the red cell").
