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Mean Platelet Volume (MPV)

Published: July 27, 2026Updated: August 25, 2026

Mean Platelet Volume (MPV) measures the average size of platelets in the blood. It is an indicator of platelet production and activation.

Quick summary

MPV assesses the average size of platelets, reflecting platelet production and activation.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 25, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

Units
fL
Clinical utility
diagnostic
Result kind
quantitative
FDA-cleared
Sysmex MPV, Abbott MPV, Siemens MPV
interpretation: {"text":"May indicate increased platelet production or activation, potentially associated with cardiovascular disease or other inflammatory conditions.","label":"High MPV"}; {"text":"May suggest decreased platelet production or smaller platelets, often linked to bone marrow disorders or thrombocytopenia.","label":"Low MPV"}

Mean Platelet Volume (MPV) is a measurement that reflects the average size of platelets in the blood. Platelets are small blood cells that are crucial for clotting and wound healing.

An elevated MPV indicates larger platelets, which may suggest increased platelet production or activation, often seen in conditions like cardiovascular disease.

Conversely, a low MPV may indicate smaller platelets, which can be associated with certain bone marrow disorders or thrombocytopenia.

Frequently asked questions

What does a high MPV mean?
A high MPV may suggest larger platelets, indicating increased platelet production or activation, which can be associated with cardiovascular disease.
What does a low MPV indicate?
A low MPV may indicate smaller platelets, which can be associated with certain bone marrow disorders or thrombocytopenia.
  1. 1
    Mean Platelet Volume: An OverviewSource
  2. 2
    MPV as a Biomarker in Cardiovascular DiseaseSource

Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 25, 2026. · Read our editorial policy