What is the Hct blood test. How are hematocrit and hemoglobin levels measured. Why are these tests important for assessing overall health. What do abnormal results indicate. How can patients prepare for these tests. What factors influence hematocrit and hemoglobin levels. When should individuals consider getting an Hct blood test.

What is the Hct Blood Test and Why is it Important?

The Hct blood test, short for hematocrit, is a crucial diagnostic tool used to assess an individual’s overall health and blood composition. This test measures the proportion of red blood cells in a person’s total blood volume, providing valuable insights into various medical conditions.

Hematocrit testing is often conducted alongside hemoglobin measurements, as these two components are closely related and offer complementary information about a person’s blood health. But what exactly does this test reveal, and why is it so important?

• Hematocrit measures the percentage of red blood cells in blood volume
• Hemoglobin quantifies the oxygen-carrying protein in red blood cells
• Together, these tests help diagnose anemia, polycythemia, and other blood disorders
• Results can indicate dehydration, nutritional deficiencies, or chronic diseases

Understanding the significance of Hct blood tests empowers individuals to take proactive steps in managing their health. By regularly monitoring these levels, healthcare providers can detect and address potential issues before they escalate into more serious conditions.

The Science Behind Hematocrit and Hemoglobin Measurements

To fully appreciate the value of Hct blood tests, it’s essential to understand the science behind hematocrit and hemoglobin measurements. These two components play distinct yet interconnected roles in maintaining optimal blood function and overall health.

Hematocrit: Measuring Red Blood Cell Concentration

Hematocrit is determined by centrifuging a blood sample, which separates the blood into its constituent parts. The packed cell volume (PCV) of red blood cells is then measured as a percentage of the total blood volume. This process provides a reliable indication of an individual’s red blood cell count and blood thickness.

Hemoglobin: Quantifying Oxygen-Carrying Capacity

Hemoglobin, on the other hand, is measured through spectrophotometry. This technique analyzes the light absorption properties of hemoglobin molecules, allowing for accurate quantification of this vital protein. Hemoglobin levels directly correlate with the blood’s ability to transport oxygen throughout the body.

The combination of these two measurements offers a comprehensive view of an individual’s blood health, enabling healthcare providers to make informed decisions about diagnosis and treatment.

Normal Ranges and Interpreting Hct Blood Test Results

Interpreting Hct blood test results requires an understanding of normal ranges and the factors that can influence these values. While individual laboratories may have slight variations in their reference ranges, general guidelines exist for both hematocrit and hemoglobin levels.

Typical Hematocrit Ranges

• Adult males: 40-54%
• Adult females: 36-48%
• Children: 36-40%
• Newborns: 55-68%

Normal Hemoglobin Ranges

• Adult males: 13.5-17.5 g/dL
• Adult females: 12.0-15.5 g/dL
• Children: 11.0-16.0 g/dL
• Newborns: 14.0-24.0 g/dL

It’s important to note that these ranges can vary based on factors such as age, gender, pregnancy status, and altitude. Healthcare providers consider these variables when interpreting results to ensure accurate diagnosis and treatment recommendations.

Common Conditions Detected Through Hct Blood Tests

Hct blood tests are invaluable tools for detecting and monitoring a wide range of health conditions. By analyzing hematocrit and hemoglobin levels, healthcare providers can identify potential issues and develop appropriate treatment plans.

Anemia: When Red Blood Cell Counts Fall Short

One of the most common conditions detected through Hct blood tests is anemia. This disorder occurs when an individual has insufficient red blood cells or hemoglobin to meet the body’s oxygen demands. There are several types of anemia, each with its own underlying causes:

• Iron-deficiency anemia
• Vitamin B12 deficiency anemia
• Folate deficiency anemia
• Sickle cell anemia
• Aplastic anemia

Early detection of anemia through Hct blood tests allows for timely intervention and management, preventing potential complications and improving overall quality of life.

Polycythemia: When Red Blood Cell Production Goes Into Overdrive

On the opposite end of the spectrum, Hct blood tests can also reveal polycythemia, a condition characterized by an excess of red blood cells. This disorder can be primary (caused by genetic factors) or secondary (resulting from underlying health issues or environmental factors).

Identifying polycythemia through Hct blood tests is crucial, as this condition can lead to serious complications such as blood clots, stroke, and heart problems if left untreated.

Factors Influencing Hematocrit and Hemoglobin Levels

Understanding the various factors that can impact hematocrit and hemoglobin levels is essential for accurate interpretation of Hct blood test results. These influences can be broadly categorized into physiological, environmental, and lifestyle factors.

Physiological Factors

• Age: Hematocrit and hemoglobin levels naturally fluctuate throughout life
• Gender: Males typically have higher levels than females due to hormonal differences
• Pregnancy: Pregnant women often experience a temporary decrease in hematocrit and hemoglobin
• Menstruation: Regular blood loss during menstruation can affect levels in females

Environmental Factors

• Altitude: Living at high altitudes can increase hematocrit and hemoglobin levels
• Climate: Hot and humid environments may lead to dehydration, affecting blood concentration
• Pollution: Exposure to certain environmental toxins can impact red blood cell production

Lifestyle Factors

• Diet: Nutritional deficiencies or excesses can influence hematocrit and hemoglobin levels
• Exercise: Regular physical activity can lead to temporary increases in these values
• Smoking: Tobacco use can artificially elevate hematocrit and hemoglobin levels
• Hydration: Dehydration can concentrate blood, leading to higher hematocrit readings

By considering these factors, healthcare providers can more accurately interpret Hct blood test results and develop personalized treatment plans for their patients.

Preparing for an Hct Blood Test: What Patients Need to Know

Proper preparation is key to ensuring accurate Hct blood test results. While the test itself is relatively simple and straightforward, there are several steps patients can take to optimize the testing process.

Before the Test

• Fasting: In most cases, fasting is not required for Hct blood tests. However, it’s best to confirm with your healthcare provider
• Medications: Inform your doctor about any medications or supplements you’re taking, as some may affect test results
• Hydration: Maintain normal hydration levels in the days leading up to the test
• Exercise: Avoid strenuous physical activity immediately before the test, as it can temporarily alter results

During the Test

The Hct blood test typically involves a simple blood draw from a vein in your arm. The process is quick and usually takes only a few minutes. Here’s what to expect:

1. A healthcare professional will clean the area where the blood will be drawn
2. A small needle will be inserted into a vein, usually in the crook of your elbow
3. A small amount of blood will be collected in one or more vials
4. The needle will be removed, and the puncture site will be covered with a bandage

By following these guidelines and communicating openly with your healthcare provider, you can help ensure the most accurate and informative Hct blood test results.

Beyond Diagnosis: The Role of Hct Blood Tests in Monitoring Health

While Hct blood tests are invaluable for diagnosing various conditions, their utility extends far beyond initial diagnosis. These tests play a crucial role in ongoing health monitoring and management of chronic conditions.

Tracking Treatment Effectiveness

For individuals diagnosed with anemia, polycythemia, or other blood disorders, regular Hct blood tests allow healthcare providers to assess the effectiveness of prescribed treatments. By monitoring changes in hematocrit and hemoglobin levels over time, doctors can make informed decisions about adjusting medications or exploring alternative therapies.

Managing Chronic Conditions

Hct blood tests are also essential for managing chronic conditions that can impact blood health, such as:

• Kidney disease
• Heart disease
• Lung disorders
• Certain types of cancer

Regular monitoring of hematocrit and hemoglobin levels helps healthcare providers detect any changes that may indicate disease progression or complications, allowing for timely interventions.

Preventive Health Screening

Even for individuals without known health issues, periodic Hct blood tests can serve as valuable preventive health screening tools. These tests can detect subtle changes in blood composition that may be early indicators of developing health problems, enabling proactive measures to maintain optimal health.

By embracing the full potential of Hct blood tests, both patients and healthcare providers can work together to ensure comprehensive, long-term health management.

Innovations in Hematocrit and Hemoglobin Testing Technologies

As medical science advances, so too do the technologies used for hematocrit and hemoglobin testing. Recent innovations have led to more efficient, accurate, and accessible testing methods, revolutionizing the field of hematology.

Point-of-Care Testing

One of the most significant advancements in Hct blood testing is the development of point-of-care devices. These portable, user-friendly instruments allow for rapid testing in various settings, including:

• Emergency rooms
• Remote clinics
• Home healthcare
• Sports medicine facilities

Point-of-care testing enables healthcare providers to obtain immediate results, facilitating faster diagnosis and treatment decisions.

Non-Invasive Hemoglobin Measurement

Emerging technologies are exploring non-invasive methods for measuring hemoglobin levels. These innovative approaches use optical sensors to analyze blood composition through the skin, eliminating the need for traditional blood draws. While still in development, these non-invasive techniques show promise for improving patient comfort and increasing testing frequency.

Automated Hematology Analyzers

Advanced automated hematology analyzers have significantly improved the accuracy and efficiency of Hct blood tests in laboratory settings. These sophisticated machines can process large numbers of samples quickly, providing detailed blood composition analyses with minimal human intervention.

As these technologies continue to evolve, we can expect even more precise, convenient, and patient-friendly methods for hematocrit and hemoglobin testing in the future.

The Future of Hct Blood Testing: Personalized Medicine and Beyond

As we look to the future of Hct blood testing, the integration of personalized medicine and advanced data analytics promises to revolutionize how we approach blood health and overall wellness.

Genetic Profiling and Tailored Treatment Plans

The combination of Hct blood test results with genetic profiling is opening new avenues for personalized treatment strategies. By understanding an individual’s genetic predisposition to certain blood disorders, healthcare providers can develop more targeted and effective interventions.

Artificial Intelligence in Result Interpretation

Machine learning algorithms are being developed to analyze vast amounts of Hct blood test data, identifying subtle patterns and trends that may escape human observation. This technology has the potential to:

• Enhance early detection of blood disorders
• Predict disease progression more accurately
• Optimize treatment protocols based on individual patient profiles

Continuous Monitoring Technologies

The development of wearable devices capable of continuous hematocrit and hemoglobin monitoring is on the horizon. These technologies could provide real-time data on blood composition, allowing for immediate detection of changes and more proactive health management.

As these advancements continue to unfold, the future of Hct blood testing holds the promise of more precise, personalized, and proactive healthcare, empowering individuals to take greater control of their blood health and overall well-being.

Haematocrit – Pathology Tests Explained

COVID-19 RATs are an example of these types of tests but we are interested in the many others on the market.

The University of Wollongong is conducting a small study about them and we’d like to hear from you if you have used one or considered using one.

Simply complete a short survey at:
https://uow.au1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_eeodpzn8lgSsAbI

From here, we may invite you to take part in a paid interview.

For more information, contact Dr Patti Shih: [email protected]

 

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On This Page
• At a glance
• What is being tested?
• The test
• Common questions
• Related information

At a glance

Also known as

Packed cell volume; PCV; Hct

Why get tested?

If your doctor suspects that you have anaemia (too few red blood cells), polycythaemia (too many red blood cells), or

When to get tested?

As part of a full blood count (FBC), which may be requested for a variety of reasons

Sample required?

A blood sample drawn from a vein in your arm or by a finger-prick (children and adults) or heel-prick (newborns)

Test preparation needed?

None

 

What is being tested?

Blood is a mixture of cells and . The haematocrit (Hct or PCV) is a measurement of the proportion of blood that is made up of cells. The value is expressed as a fraction of cells in blood. For example, a Hct of 0.40 means that there are 40 millilitres of cells in 100 millilitres of blood.

The haematocrit rises when the number of red blood cells increases or when the blood volume is reduced, as in . The value can fall to less than normal, indicating anaemia, when the body decreases its production of red blood cells or increases its destruction of red blood cells.

How is the sample collected for testing?

A sample is obtained by drawing blood through a needle placed in a vein in the arm or by a finger-prick (for children and adults) or a heel-prick (for newborns).

Is any test preparation needed to ensure the quality of the sample?

No test preparation is needed.

 

The Test

How is it used?

This test is used to evaluate:

• anaemia (decrease of red blood cells)
• polycythaemia (increase in red blood cells)
• blood transfusion decision, and
• the effectiveness of those transfusions.

When is it requested?

The haematocrit is normally requested as a part of the full blood count (FBC). It is also repeated at regular intervals for many conditions, including:

• the diagnosis of anaemia
• the treatment of anaemia
• recovery from
• monitoring of ongoing bleeding to check its severity, and
• monitoring of polycythaemia.

What does the test result mean?

A decreased haematocrit (PCV) indicates anaemia, such as that caused by iron deficiency. Further testing may be necessary to determine the exact cause of the anaemia.

Other conditions that can result in a low haematocrit include or mineral deficiencies, recent bleeding, of the liver, and malignancies.

The most common cause of an increased haematocrit is , and with adequate fluid intake, it returns to normal. However, if it persists when a patient is not dehydrated, it is suggestive of a condition called polycythaemia — that is, when a person has more than the normal number of red blood cells. Polycythaemia is called primary polycythaemia (Polycythaemia vera) when it is due to a problem (myeloproliferative neoplasm). More commonly polycythaemia is a compensation for inadequate delivery of oxygen to the body’s tissues, which may be due to problems with lung function, heart or rarely due to abnormalities of the kidneys or adrenal glands.

Is there anything else I should know?

Pregnancy usually causes a slightly decreased Hct due to extra fluid in the blood.

Living at high altitudes causes an increased Hct – this is your body’s response to the decreased oxygen available at these heights.

Common Questions

How do you treat anaemia?

Treatment will depend upon the type of anaemia and the cause. Folic acid, replacement, iron, and packed red cell transfusion are some therapies used to treat anaemia.

Can I measure my haematocrit at home?

No. This test is performed by trained laboratory personnel.

Is anyone more at risk for abnormal haematocrit values?

People who have a chronic illness (such as rheumatoid arthritis), an inherited blood disorder, or malnutrition are at risk for an abnormal Hct. Women of childbearing age may have temporary decreases in Hct during menstrual periods and pregnancy.

Last Review Date: October 4, 2022

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Hematocrit (HCT) Blood Test– Types, Procedure, Results, Analysis

HEMATOCRIT DEFINITION

Hematocrit (HCT) is the proportion, by volume (expressed in percentage), of the blood that consists of red blood cells. For example, a hematocrit of 35% means that there are 35 milliliters of red blood cells in 100 milliliters of blood.

Blood is a specialized body fluid with a diversity of functions including transporting oxygen and nutrients to different organs and tissues of the body. It has four main components:

• Red blood cells (RBCs).
• White blood cells (WBCs).
• Platelets.
• Plasma.

Red blood cells are vital to your health. They bind the oxygen in your body system and transport it to various locations in your body, via your bloodstream. For you to stay healthy, your body must have the correct proportion of red blood cells. This is because a low or high proportion of RBCs in your body will result in an abnormal health condition.

An HCT blood test is used to determine if hematocrit levels are of the low, high, or normal range.

A hematocrit can help your doctor diagnose a particular health condition in your body, or it can determine how well your body is responding to a particular treatment. Apart from various other reasons, doctors most often use hematocrit tests for:

• Anemia (lack of blood).
• Leukemia (cancer of the blood).
• Dehydration.
• Dietary deficiency.

Alternatively, your doctor can order a complete blood count (CBC) test. CBCs include hematocrit test, as well as:

• Hemoglobin test.
• Reticulocyte count.

Looking at your overall blood test results, the doctor will have an understanding of your red blood cell count. CBC is a common test that screens your blood for certain disorders that can affect your health. It also determines if there are any increases or decreases in your blood cell count. 

Normal values vary, based on your age and gender. Your lab report will reveal the normal value range for your age and gender. With CBC, we can diagnose a broad range of conditions, ranging from anemia and other infections to cancer. Typical hematocrit levels are as follows:

• Adult men 38.8% to 50.2%
• Adult women 34.9% to 44.5%

Children aged 15 and under have a separate set of ranges since their hematocrit levels change rapidly with time. The hematocrit range for a child of a certain age will be determined by the specific lab responsible for the analysis of the results.

HEMATOCRIT TEST PROCEDURES

Blood Sample:

• A small sample of your blood will be needed for your hematocrit test.
• The blood will be taken from a vein in your arm, or drawn from a pin piercing on your finger.

If the hematocrit test is to be obtained a complete blood count (CBC):

• A lab technician will draw blood from your vein, either from the inside of your elbow or the back of your hand.
• A portion of your skin where the blood is to be drawn will be cleaned with an antiseptic.
• An elastic band or tourniquet will be tied around your upper arm to help the vein swell with blood.
• The technician will insert a needle in the vein and collect a blood sample in one or more vials.
• He will remove the elastic band and cover the punctured area with a bandage, to stop the bleeding.
• You may experience minor bruising, which will clear up within a few days.
• Your sample is then sent to a lab for analysis.

Evaluation:

Your HCT range is evaluated using a centrifuge (a machine that spins at a high frequency).

• An anticoagulant is added to the blood sample, to keep your blood from clotting.
• The blood sample in a test tube is pinned in at a high rate in a centrifuge (which causes the contents of your blood to separate).
• The test tube is brought out of the centrifuge and the sample will separate into 3 parts (red blood cells, plasma (the fluid in your blood), and anticoagulants).  The RBCs will occupy the lower bottom of the tube.
• The red blood cells (RBCs) are then compared to a guide that reveals what proportions of your blood they make up.

Hematocrit Normal Range:

Some laboratories have their special ranges for hematocrit. The generally accepted ranges (a standard) for hematocrit depend on your gender and age. Normal hematocrit levels are determined by ages and are as follows:

These values may vary slightly among different laboratories.

Low Hematocrit Result:

Low hematocrit indicates the anemic condition. There are many causes of anemia. Some common reasons are:

• Loss of blood (via traumatic injury, bleeding, surgery, and colon cancer).
• Bone marrow problems (eg: replacement of bone marrow by cancer).
• Suppression by chemotherapy drugs.
• Abnormal hemoglobin (sickle cell anemia).
• Nutritional deficiency in nutrients such as iron, folate, vitamin B12, etc.

High Hematocrit Result:

High hematocrit indicates abnormally elevated red blood cell (RBC) counts. This is typical of:

• People living at high altitudes, such as hills or mountains.
• Chronic smokers, such as chain-smokers.

Abnormally elevated RBC levels are also proofs of abnormal health conditions like:

• Dehydration (which can be restored when the body is normally hydrated).
• Lung disease.
• Certain tumors.
• Bone marrow disorder (medically known as polycythemia Rubia vera).
• Erythropoietin (Epogen) drug abuse; common among athletes.

SYMPTOMS OF A LOW RBC COUNT

These include:

• Fatigue or tiredness.
• Shortened breath.
• Increased heart rate.
• Dizziness or sleepiness.
• General weakness.

SYMPTOMS OF A HIGH RBC COUNT

• Fatigue.
• Joint pain.
• Shortened breath.
• Itchy skin, especially after a shower.
• Disturbance of sleep (also known as insomnia).
• Tenderness in the palms of the hands or soles of the feet.

RISKS OF A HEMATOCRIT TEST

A hematocrit test is not associated with any major risks. Patients return to their normal working life, after the procedure. 

You may have pricking, some bleeding, and/or throbbing at the site where the blood is drawn. Bleeding and swelling at the puncture site will stop within a few minutes after the test. 

If you experience persistent swelling or bleeding that doesn’t stop within some minutes of pressure being applied to the puncture site, feel free to report to the doctor, with immediate effect.

CONDITIONS THAT AFFECT ACCURATE HEMATOCRIT RESULTS

Several factors can an accurate outcome of a hematocrit test. These are as follows:

• Smoking.
• Pregnancy.
• Severe dehydration.
• Recent blood transfusion.
• The significant recent loss of blood.
• Living at high altitudes, such as mountains, plateau, or hills.

FAQs

• What do hematocrit levels indicate?

A hematocrit test measures how much of your blood is made up of red blood cells (RBCs). These RBCs contain a protein called hemoglobin which is responsible for carrying oxygen from your lungs to the rest of your body. Too high or too low hematocrit levels can indicate a blood disorder, dehydration, or other medical conditions.

• What is a good hematocrit level?

The normal levels of hematocrit for adult women range from 38% to 46%, while that of men is from 42% to 54%. These values may however be slightly varied among different labs.

• Why is hematocrit important?

Hematocrit is a simple blood test done to measure the percentage of red blood cells in a person’s blood. Erythrocytes (red blood cells) are important because they carry oxygen through your body. A low or high red blood cell (RBC) count can indicate a medical condition.

• Which is more important: hemoglobin or hematocrit?

The important message for nephrologists is that hemoglobin is always superior to hematocrit for monitoring anemia of renal disease because it can be measured with greater accuracy, both within and between labs. Hb (hemoglobin) and HCT (hematocrit) are both excellent correlates of anemia and correlate well with one another.

• What causes low hematocrit in blood tests?

The causes of low hematocrit may likely be or include ulcers, traumatic bleeding, colon cancer, internal bleeding, sickle cell anemia, enlarged spleen, bone marrow suppression, cancer, drugs, and decreased production, as well as the destruction of red blood cells.

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Almost all cancer patients have some kind of immunity disorders, oncoimmunologists of the N. N. N.N. Petrov based on the results of research they have been doing since 1997.

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Why are mutations in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes determined? What is the best diagnostic method?

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The BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes carry information about proteins that are able to repair DNA double-strand breaks. If one of the genes is damaged by a mutation (the DNA sequence changes), then a non-functioning protein is synthesized in the cells.

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Hormone dependent breast cancer: diagnosis and treatment

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The most common cancer diagnosis in women worldwide is breast cancer. Every year in Russia this disease is diagnosed in 50 thousand people.

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What is cancer and how not to miss it? What is cancer and how not to miss it? N. N. Petrova.

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Triple-negative breast cancer: features of the disease and treatment options two million people.

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What is cytokine therapy, in what cases is it used?

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Aleksey Viktorovich Novik, oncologist, oncoimmunologist, chemotherapist, N.N. N.N. Petrova, candidate of medical sciences

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Bacteriological examination of urine

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Microorganisms that enter the urine multiply rapidly and an inflammatory process occurs. If a urinary tract infection (UTI) is suspected, to diagnose and monitor its course, as well as to evaluate the effectiveness of treatment, the patient is offered to conduct a bacteriological study of urine.

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What does a urinalysis say?

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Urinalysis is used not only to detect pathology in the urinary system, but also to assess the state of the body as a whole, using immunological, bacteriological, molecular biological, immunochromatographic and many other research methods. Among the variety of methods, perhaps the most popular is the general analysis of urine.

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Complications of anticancer drug treatment: skin toxicity

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Skin toxicity is the result of the toxic effect of drugs on rapidly dividing cells, which, in addition to tumor cells, also include cells of the skin and its appendages.

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Skin Cancer: Prevention, Diagnosis, Treatment

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Skin cancer rarely occurs out of nowhere. Precancerous conditions (precursors of cancer) due to a combination of adverse factors can pathologically change, become malignant: actinic keratosis, skin horn, trophic ulcers, keratoacanthoma.

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What does a general (clinical) blood test say?

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Blood tests are perhaps the most frequently performed tests. It is an integral element of any examination, both at the stage of diagnosis and during treatment. What do the indicators of the general blood test mean?

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What does the coagulogram tell about?

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This test with an unpronounceable name is mandatory for admission to an oncology hospital. What does the coagulogram show, what do the numerous abbreviations mean?

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Features of vaccination of cancer patients: recommendations for children and adults

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Is it possible to get vaccinated in oncology? Natalya Alexandrovna Efremova, oncologist, researcher at the Scientific Department of Oncoimmunology, N. N. N.N. Petrova, answered a number of important questions about the vaccination of cancer patients.

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What is a tracheostomy and how can I take care of it at home? Olga Sergeevna Korneeva N.N. Petrova, spoke about the important rules for self-care for a tracheostomy and the tools and devices necessary for this.

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Cancer at a young age: has the incidence increased?

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Let’s find out why this is not so, together with Anna Nikolaevna Malkova, Head of the Information Service and Department of Telemedicine Technologies, N.N. N.N. Petrova

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Can cancer be cured?

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Can cancer be cured or is it a deadly disease, is it possible to get rid of the diagnosis forever?

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Protecting a doctor from slander and insult Medical lawyer Natalya Kosolapova told how to punish an offender

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Professional medical activity is associated with constant communication with patients. Unfortunately, this communication does not always take place in a calm atmosphere. Often, patients show not only disrespect, but also real aggression towards the medical staff.

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Surgical treatment of peritoneal carcinomatosis (peritoneal carcinomatosis)

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The modern strategy of surgical treatment of peritoneal carcinomatosis consists in surgical interventions, the purpose of which is the most complete removal of all visible manifestations of the tumor.

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How radionuclide diagnostics is carried out

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N.N. Petrov, effective methods for diagnosing tumor diseases of the mammary glands, lymph nodes, lungs, bones, abdominal organs and small pelvis are used.

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Deciphering a blood test on the analyzer – Article in Yekaterinburg

Modern hematological analyzers have the ability to decipher from 5 to 24 blood parameters:

• WBC (white blood cells – white blood cells, leukocytes). The indicator characterizes the absolute content of leukocytes.
• RBC (red blood cells – red blood cells, erythrocytes) shows the absolute content of erythrocytes in the blood.
• HGB (Hb, hemoglobin, hemoglobin) — the concentration of hemoglobin in whole blood.
• HCT (hematocrit, hematocrit). Hematocrit determines the ratio of the volume of formed elements to plasma.
• PLT (platelets, platelets) – absolute number of platelets

Erythrocyte indices

• MCV – mean volume of erythrocyte in microns or fl. Using the analysis, you can determine the presence of microcytosis, normocytosis, macrocytosis.
• MCH is the average amount of hemoglobin in an erythrocyte in absolute units. The analysis indicates the color index.
• MCHC is the average concentration of hemoglobin in one erythrocyte, i.e. its degree of saturation with hemoglobin.

Platelet indices

• MPV (mean platelet volume)
• PDW characterizes platelet heterogeneity, i. e. their relative width of distribution in volume.
• PCT (platelet crit) – thrombocrit – the percentage of whole blood volume that is occupied by platelets.

Leukocyte indices

• LYM% (LY%) (lymphocyte) – percentage of lymphocyte concentration.
• LYM# (LY#) (lymphocyte) — absolute number of lymphocytes.
• MXD% is the relative percentage of a mixture consisting of monocytes, basophils and eosinophils.
• MXD# is the absolute amount of a mixture consisting of monocytes, basophils and eosinophils.
• NEUT% (NE%) (neutrophils) – percentage of neutrophils.
• NEUT# (NE#) (neutrophils) — absolute number of neutrophils.
• MON% (MO%) (monocyte) – percentage of monocytes
• MON# (MO#) (monocyte) – absolute number of monocytes
• EO% – relative percentage of eosinophils.
• EO# is the absolute number of eosinophils.
• BA% – relative percentage of basophils.
• BA# is the absolute number of basophils.
• IMM% – relative percentage of immature granulocytes.
• IMM# is the absolute number of immature granulocytes.
• ATL% – relative percentage of atypical lymphocytes.
• ATL# is the absolute number of atypical lymphocytes.
• GR% – relative percentage of granulocytes.
• GR# is the absolute number of granulocytes.

RBC indices

• RBC/HCT — mean volume of erythrocytes.
• HGB/RBC is the average amount of hemoglobin in an erythrocyte.
• HGB/HCT — average saturation of erythrocyte hemoglobin.
• RDW – Red cell Distribution Width Characterizes the heterogeneity of erythrocytes.
• RDW-SD is the standard deviation of the distribution width of erythrocytes by volume.
• RDW-CV – coefficient of variation in the relative width of the distribution of erythrocytes by volume.
• P-LCR is a coefficient indicating the number of large platelets.
• ESR (ESR) (erythrocyte sedimentation rate) is a marker of pathology.