The VGM is a very useful data in case of anemia or chronic alcohol consumption. Often requested during a blood test, it must be analyzed according to the rest of the analysis, in particular the blood count.
The VGM assay is part of the blood count of the complete blood count, called NFS. The term “VGM” means “Mean corpuscular volume” and corresponds to the average volume of red blood cells in the blood.
The VGM is measured by means of a venous blood test generally at the bend of the elbow. It can be measured directly by counting machines, or calculated by dividing the hematocrit by the number of red blood cells. He is useful in case of symptoms of anemia or to assess the extent of chronic alcohol consumption.
The normal value of MCV is between 80 and 100 femtoliters (10-15 liters).
The MCV is increased when the red blood cells are larger than normal (macrocytosis), as for example during anemia caused by a deficiency in vitamin B12 or B9 (we speak of “macrocytic anemia”), or in the event of chronic alcoholism. Hypothyroidism, hepatitis, cirrhosis or the taking of certain drugs or toxins (chemotherapy, antibiotics, etc.) may also be involved.
An increase in the TCMH (the average quantity of hemoglobin contained in a red blood cell) and in the MCV can possibly be seen during anemias macrocytic because the red cells are larger than normal and tend to have a higher MCHC. Macrocytic anemia is a abnormal decrease in hemoglobin level in the blood characterized by large red blood cells. Signs of anemia can appear very quickly: severe fatigue, lack of energy and a pale complexion will affect the general condition of the patient.
When the MCV decreases, the red blood cells are smaller than normal (microcytosis). This is the case mainly in the so-called “microcytic” anemias caused by a iron deficiency or thalassemia. This can also be the case during a very prolonged inflammatory state.
A excessive and prolonged consumption of alcohol leads to an increase in Mean Globular Volume (greater than 98 femtoliters). After stopping consumption, the return to normal requires more than 3 months due to the lifespan of red blood cells (120 days).
“A VGM anomaly cannot be interpreted without all the data from the blood test and the clinical examination. It is up to the doctor to interpret and continue the examinations if necessary” says Dr. Claire Lewandowski, a doctor specializing in general medicine.