Mean Platelet Volume (MPV)

A high MPV means your platelets are larger than average, often reflecting younger, more reactive platelets. It can indicate increased platelet production or turnover from conditions such as recent bleeding, immune causes, inflammation, infection, metabolic syndrome, or bone marrow disorders. Higher MPV may signal greater clotting risk. Your doctor will correlate it with platelet count, symptoms and may order repeat tests or further evaluation.

Low MPV means your platelets are smaller than normal. This often reflects reduced platelet production by the bone marrow (from marrow disorders, chemotherapy, aplastic anemia) or certain inherited platelet conditions. It can occur with or without a low platelet count and requires further evaluation—repeat CBC and review by a clinician to identify underlying causes and guide testing or treatment.

High mean platelet volume (MPV) often reflects larger, younger platelets from increased marrow turnover. Vitamin B12 deficiency—and sometimes folate deficiency—can cause increased MPV as megaloblastic changes disrupt platelet production, producing fewer but larger platelets. Confirm with a full blood count and specific vitamin assays; treat the underlying deficiency to normalize platelet indices and prevent hematologic complications.

Elevated mean platelet volume (MPV) has been reported in several solid tumors, most commonly lung, colorectal, gastric (stomach) and breast cancers; it’s also observed in ovarian, pancreatic and hepatocellular carcinomas. Increased MPV reflects platelet activation and systemic inflammation associated with malignancy. MPV alone isn’t diagnostic but may complement other tests for cancer prognosis or monitoring.

Reduce high mean platelet volume (MPV) by treating underlying causes—control infections, inflammation, thyroid disease, diabetes and other chronic conditions—and by adopting healthy habits: stop smoking, limit alcohol, maintain healthy weight, eat a balanced diet, and exercise regularly. Avoid or adjust medications that affect platelets only with medical advice. Have regular blood tests and follow up with your doctor or a hematologist for targeted care and monitoring.

Mean platelet volume (MPV) is best kept within the normal laboratory range. High MPV means larger, more reactive platelets and can be linked to increased clotting and cardiovascular risk or active inflammation. Low MPV indicates smaller platelets, which may reflect bone marrow problems or higher bleeding risk. Either abnormal result should prompt clinical evaluation and correlation with other tests and symptoms.