VGM is very useful data in the event of anemia or chronic alcohol consumption. Often requested from the short blood report, it must be analyzed according to the rest of the analysis, in particular the hemogram.
The dosage of the VGM is part of the blood dosage of the blood formula, called NFS. The term “VGM” means “Medium globular volume” and corresponds to the average volume of red blood cells in the blood.
The VGM is measured using a venous blood test at the bend of the elbow generally. It can be directly measured by the number automata, or calculated by dividing hematocrit by the number of red blood cells. He is Useful in the event of anemia symptoms or to assess the importance of chronic alcohol consumption.
The normal value of the VGM is between 80 and 100 femtoliters (10-15 liters).
The VGM is increased when the red blood cells are larger than normal (macrocytosis), as for example during anemias caused by a deficit in vitamin B12 or B9 (we speak “of macrocytic anemia”), or in case of chronic alcoholism. Hypothyroidism, hepatitis, cirrhosis or taking certain drugs or toxic (chemotherapy, antibiotics …) can also be involved.
An increase in TCMH (the average quantity of hemoglobin contained in a red blood cell) and the VGM can possibly be seen during anemia Macrocyaries, because red blood cells are larger than normal and tend to have a higher TCMH. Macrocytic anemia is a abnormal decrease in hemoglobin level in the blood characterized by large red blood cells. The signs of anemia may appear very quickly: great fatigue, lack of energy and a pale complexion will alter the patient’s general condition.
When the VGM decreases, the red blood cells are smaller than normal (microcytosis). This is the case mainly in Anemia called “microcytic” caused by a iron deficiency or thalassemia. This can also be the case during a very prolonged inflammatory state.
A excessive and prolonged alcohol consumption leads to an increase in the average globular volume (greater than 98 femtoliters). After stopping consumption, the return to normal requires more than 3 months due to the lifespan of red blood cells (120 days).
“An anomaly of the VGM cannot be interpreted without all the data of the blood test and the clinical examination. It is up to the doctor to interpret and continue the exams if necessary” Cons up Dr. Claire Lewandowski, doctor specializing in general medicine.
