Mean Platelet Volume (MPV)

Testing Laboratories

Department

Haematology

Delphic Registration Code (Alpha Code)

FBC, MPV

Test Code (Numeric Code)

1012

Laboratory Handling

Sample Stability

6 hours at room temperature, 24 hours if refrigerated

Synonyms

MPV

Turnaround Time

2 hours

Specimen Type

• Whole Blood

Specimen Requirements

Tube/Container Type:

Preferred

• EDTA (Lavender Cap)

Preferred Sample Volume (ml)

3

Minimum Sample Volume (ml)

0.5

Paediatric Specimen Requirements

Tube/Container Type:

Preferred

• EDTA (Lavender Cap)

Additional Specimen Information

This test is only reported on request.

Test Method

Sysmex

The mean platelet volume (MPV) relates to the average platelet size obtained from the platelet distribution curve. In the laboratory, platelets are counted by electrical impedance using Sysmex analysers. All cells between 2 and 40 fL are placed into different size channels and the MPV is taken from the curve drawn from this data.

In general terms, a raised MPV can indicate accelerated thrombopoiesis following increased platelet destruction or peripheral loss, where larger platelets are being released from the marrow. An increased MPV has been shown to be associated with an increased risk of heart attack and stroke.

Contact Information