blood results

[19721978]

does anyone know what this means

[Neonkittie17]

I’d ask your nurse to explain as although I recall reading Mtx can sometimes increase the size of the red cells it didn’t happen to me. . I hope it settles. As it’s just over threshold it might be the consultant is waiting to see what the next result is and if it’s back in the normal range. If it concerns you contact your rheumy nurse or your GP practice nurse.

[Runrig01]

as neonkittie says it’s to do with the volume of the red blood cells. It is very common when taking mtx. Mine has always been slightly raised, in the whole 8yrs I’ve been on it. My rheumatologist isn’t concerned at all, It is literally just outside the normal parameters, so I doubt it will concern them. I assume all other results are ok, have they checked folate and B12 levels, as sometimes they can cause raised MCV, if there is a deficiency.

[Madmusiclover]

As others have said. Mine have been dipping in and out of range for years, even b4 RA. ‘Normal for me’

[Seatgeorge]

Summary. An MCV test measures the size and volume of red blood cells. A typical MCV range is roughly 80 to 100 fl . If someone's MCV level is below 80 fl, they will likely develop or have microcytic anemia. Alternatively, if their MCV levels are greater than 100 fl, they could experience macrocytic anemia. Hope this helps

[HappyD34]

Morning , it’s always a bit anxious waiting for bloods especially when you see things outside the green zone. There is a fabulous booklet from NRAS “ Blood matters” , it describes the different types of blood tests etc. I just read up on mine as my MCV just creeping outside of norm . Call rheumy team if you like them to check. I was told by mine that even if your GP says to stop meds because of bloods to call rheumy nurses , she said they can often get a bit twitchy , rheumy will decide what’s ok. All the best

[helixhelix]

my previous rheumy said not to worry if results were less than 10% outside the range as often just a result of being slightly less hydrated.

[oldtimer2]

Your red blood cells are slightly bigger than average.

Mine are all the time, no-one seems to know why.

My B12 levels have been checked and are 'very satisfactory'. The 'experts' put it down to 'the medication' .....or to 'the Rheumatoid Arthritis'... or to 'I don't know' which at least is honest.

[Rupert2001]

MCV is a measurement of the size of your red cells. Being raised is not uncommon when on methotrexate. Your dr will look at the result alongside your liver function tests which are checked regularly when on methotrexate. As others said, because there are other causes of a raised MCV your dr may also decide to check your B12 and folate levels to make sure these are in the normal range.