What MCV value is indicative of microcytic anemia?

Microcytic anemia is characterized by red blood cells that are smaller than normal, which is typically identified through the mean corpuscular volume (MCV) measurement in a complete blood count (CBC). In general, an MCV value less than 80 femtoliters (fL) is often used as a cutoff for diagnosing microcytic anemia. This threshold suggests that the red blood cells are smaller than the standard size expected in healthy individuals.

The MCV measurement reflects the average volume of a red blood cell; therefore, when the value falls below this cutoff, it indicates a potential deficiency in hemoglobin or other underlying conditions, such as iron deficiency or thalassemia, which are common causes of microcytic anemia.

In this context, although values less than 75 or less than 85 are also mentioned, the most widely recognized reference for microcytic anemia starts at less than 80. Hence, the choice that accurately aligns with the commonly accepted clinical parameters for microcytic anemia diagnosis is the one with an MCV value less than 80.