From the Guidelines
Your lab results indicate mild anemia, and I strongly recommend consulting with your healthcare provider for a complete evaluation to determine the underlying cause. Your lab results show a slightly low red blood cell (RBC) count of 3.95 million cells/mcL (normal range typically 4.2-5.4 million/mcL for women, 4.7-6.1 million/mcL for men), a low-normal hematocrit (HCT) of 35.8% (normal range typically 37-47% for women, 42-52% for men), and an elevated mean platelet volume (MPV) of 13.5 fL (normal range typically 7.5-11.5 fL). These results suggest mild anemia with larger-than-normal platelets. The diagnosis of anemia is typically made at hemoglobin (Hb) concentrations less than 13.5 g/dL in adult males and less than 12.0 g/dL in adult females, according to the clinical practice guidelines for anemia in chronic kidney disease in adults 1. Key points to consider in the evaluation of these lab results include:
- The slightly low RBC count and hematocrit could indicate anemia due to iron deficiency, chronic disease, or other causes.
- The elevated MPV suggests increased platelet production, which can occur with platelet destruction, bone marrow recovery, or certain inflammatory conditions.
- Treatment will depend on the underlying cause but might include iron supplements if iron deficiency is confirmed, dietary changes, or addressing any underlying medical conditions. These values alone are not severely abnormal but warrant follow-up to determine the cause and appropriate management.
From the Research
Red Blood Cell Parameters
- The given values are: RBC 3.95, HCT 35.8, MPV 13.5
- According to 2, the mean platelet volume (MPV) is one of the potentially underutilized components of the complete blood cell count (CBC) and has unique diagnostic applications and prognostic implications.
Anemia Diagnosis
- Anemia is defined as a limited or insufficient functional red blood cell supply in peripheral blood, causing a reduced oxygen supply to tissues 3.
- Hemoglobin (Hb) concentration is most commonly measured for anemia diagnosis, and methods to measure Hb are usually invasive (requiring a blood sample) 3.
- The first-time laboratory test of all patients suspected of being anemic is the full blood count, which may suggest the anemia is caused by a nutritional deficiency of B12, folate, or iron 4.
Red Blood Cell Parameters and Anemia
- Diabetes mellitus (DM) patients show a significant derangement in various hematological parameters, including changes affecting the red blood cells (RBCs) 5.
- The mean values of RBC parameters (RBC, Hgb, Hct, and MCV) for DM patients were found significantly lower than the control groups, and a significant negative correlation was found between creatinine (Cr) and RBC indices (RBC, Hgb, Hct, and MCV) in DM patients 5.
- Initial evaluation of anemia consists of a thorough history and physical examination and a complete blood cell count (CBC), and careful examination of the CBC and the mean corpuscular volume provides important clues to the classification and cause of anemia 6.