What causes high RBC count but low MCV and MCH levels?

Question

Hi doctor,

If my complete blood count has a high RBC value and low MCV and MCH values, what is the possible diagnosis for me? Kindly guide.

Answer 1

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

1. A high RBC count is called polycythemia. If it is persistently high, then the cause should be evaluated. Respiratory causes like COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease) and cardiac causes can lead to secondary polycythemia. Primary polycythemia is a myeloproliferative neoplasm due to a JAK2 (Janus kinase 2) mutation. PCR (polymerase chain reaction) needs to be done if suspected.

2. Low MCV (mean corpuscular volume) can be due to anemia, for which peripheral blood smear examination, serum ferritin, and TIBC (total iron binding capacity) reports are required for further workup.

I hope this will help you. Take care.

Thank you.