What is hematocrit test for. Hematocrit Test: Understanding Red Blood Cell Levels and Their Impact on Health

24.12.202113.07.2023 by alexxlab

What is a hematocrit test. How is a hematocrit test performed. What do hematocrit test results indicate. Why might a doctor order a hematocrit test. How do abnormal hematocrit levels affect health. What conditions can cause low or high hematocrit levels. How are hematocrit-related disorders treated.

Содержание

The Importance of Hematocrit Testing in Assessing Blood Health

Hematocrit testing plays a crucial role in evaluating overall blood health and detecting potential disorders related to red blood cell levels. This simple yet informative test provides valuable insights into the composition of blood and can help identify various conditions that may require medical attention.

What is a Hematocrit Test?

A hematocrit test, also known as an HCT test or packed cell volume (PCV) test, measures the proportion of red blood cells in a person’s blood. Red blood cells are essential for transporting oxygen throughout the body and removing carbon dioxide. By determining the percentage of blood volume occupied by red blood cells, healthcare providers can assess whether a patient’s levels fall within the normal range or indicate potential health issues.

How is a Hematocrit Test Performed?

The hematocrit test is typically conducted as part of a complete blood count (CBC). It involves drawing a small blood sample from a vein, usually in the arm. The sample is then analyzed in a laboratory using specialized equipment that separates the blood components and calculates the proportion of red blood cells.

Understanding Blood Composition and Its Role in Health

To fully appreciate the significance of hematocrit testing, it’s essential to understand the composition of blood and the functions of its various components.

Components of Blood

Blood consists of two main parts:

Plasma: The liquid portion of blood, comprising water, proteins, and salts.
Blood cells: Suspended in plasma, including:
- Red blood cells (erythrocytes): Responsible for oxygen transport
- White blood cells (leukocytes): Part of the immune system
- Platelets (thrombocytes): Essential for blood clotting

The hematocrit test specifically focuses on the proportion of red blood cells, which typically make up about 40-45% of total blood volume in healthy adults.

Interpreting Hematocrit Test Results: Normal Ranges and Implications

Hematocrit test results are expressed as a percentage, indicating the proportion of blood volume occupied by red blood cells. Normal ranges can vary slightly depending on factors such as age, gender, and the specific laboratory performing the test.

Normal Hematocrit Ranges

Adult men: 38.3% to 48.6%
Adult women: 35.5% to 44.9%
Children: Ranges vary by age

Results falling outside these ranges may indicate underlying health conditions that require further investigation.

Low Hematocrit Levels: Causes and Implications of Anemia

A hematocrit level below the normal range is often indicative of anemia, a condition characterized by a lack of healthy red blood cells to carry oxygen effectively throughout the body.

Types of Anemia and Their Causes

There are several types of anemia, each with distinct causes:

Iron deficiency anemia: The most common type, often caused by inadequate iron intake or blood loss
Vitamin deficiency anemia: Resulting from insufficient vitamin B12 or folate
Aplastic anemia: A rare condition where the body fails to produce enough blood cells
Hemolytic anemia: Characterized by premature destruction of red blood cells
Sickle cell anemia: An inherited disorder affecting hemoglobin structure
Anemia of chronic disease: Associated with long-term inflammatory conditions

Symptoms of Anemia

Common symptoms of anemia include:

Fatigue and weakness
Pale or yellowish skin
Shortness of breath
Dizziness or lightheadedness
Chest pain or irregular heartbeat
Cold hands and feet
Headaches

High Hematocrit Levels: Understanding Polycythemia and Its Implications

Elevated hematocrit levels may indicate a condition called polycythemia, characterized by an excess of red blood cells in the bloodstream.

Types of Polycythemia

There are two main types of polycythemia:

Polycythemia vera (PV): A rare, slow-progressing bone marrow cancer often caused by a genetic mutation
Secondary polycythemia: Resulting from underlying conditions or environmental factors that stimulate increased red blood cell production

Causes of Secondary Polycythemia

Living at high altitudes
Chronic lung diseases
Congenital heart defects
Kidney tumors
Smoking
Certain medications

Diagnostic Value of Hematocrit Testing in Clinical Practice

Hematocrit testing serves as a valuable diagnostic tool in various clinical scenarios, providing insights into a patient’s overall health and potential underlying conditions.

When is a Hematocrit Test Ordered?

Healthcare providers may order a hematocrit test in the following situations:

As part of routine health screenings
To evaluate symptoms suggestive of anemia or polycythemia
To monitor response to treatments for blood disorders
Before surgery to assess a patient’s risk of complications
To investigate unexplained fatigue or weakness
During pregnancy to monitor maternal health

Complementary Tests

Hematocrit testing is often performed alongside other blood tests to provide a comprehensive picture of a patient’s health. These may include:

Hemoglobin test
Red blood cell count
Mean corpuscular volume (MCV)
White blood cell count
Platelet count

Treatment Approaches for Abnormal Hematocrit Levels

The treatment of abnormal hematocrit levels depends on the underlying cause and severity of the condition. Here are some common approaches:

Treating Low Hematocrit (Anemia)

Iron supplementation for iron deficiency anemia
Vitamin B12 injections or supplements for pernicious anemia
Folic acid supplements for folate deficiency
Blood transfusions for severe anemia
Medications to stimulate red blood cell production
Treatment of underlying conditions causing anemia

Managing High Hematocrit (Polycythemia)

Phlebotomy (blood removal) to reduce blood volume
Medications to suppress bone marrow activity in polycythemia vera
Lifestyle changes, such as quitting smoking or moving to lower altitudes
Treatment of underlying conditions causing secondary polycythemia

Preventive Measures and Lifestyle Considerations for Optimal Blood Health

Maintaining healthy hematocrit levels involves a combination of lifestyle choices and preventive measures. Consider the following strategies:

Dietary Considerations

Consume iron-rich foods (lean meats, leafy greens, legumes)
Include vitamin B12 sources (fish, eggs, dairy products)
Incorporate folate-rich foods (citrus fruits, beans, fortified grains)
Stay hydrated to maintain proper blood volume

Lifestyle Factors

Exercise regularly to stimulate blood cell production
Quit smoking to reduce the risk of polycythemia
Manage stress through relaxation techniques
Get adequate sleep to support overall health

Regular Health Check-ups

Schedule routine health screenings, including blood tests, to monitor hematocrit levels and detect any abnormalities early.

Understanding the importance of hematocrit testing and maintaining healthy red blood cell levels is crucial for overall well-being. By being aware of the factors that influence hematocrit and taking proactive steps to support blood health, individuals can reduce their risk of developing related disorders and enjoy better overall health outcomes.

Remember that while hematocrit testing provides valuable insights, it is just one piece of the puzzle in assessing overall health. Always consult with healthcare professionals for personalized advice and comprehensive evaluations tailored to your specific needs and circumstances.

Hematocrit Testing: Purpose and Procedure

Written by Sarah Vallie

Medically Reviewed by Jabeen Begum, MD on November 09, 2022

What Is the Hematocrit Test?
Hematocrit Test Purpose
Hematocrit Test Procedure
Hematocrit Test Results

You need blood to carry oxygen through your body, remove carbon dioxide, and fight infection. To do this, your blood has different types of blood cells that do different jobs. If the levels of any of these blood cells are off, it can cause a host of problems for your body. A hematocrit test tells your doctor if your levels of red blood cells are off.

A hematocrit test (HCT test), sometimes called a packed cell volume test (PCV test), is a test that measures your hematocrit. Hematocrit is the level of red blood cells within your blood.

Your blood is made up of plasma and blood cells. Plasma is the liquid part of your blood and is made of protein, salts, and water. Over half your blood composition is plasma.

Suspended in that plasma are three types of blood cells:

Platelets, also called thrombocytes, are small fragments that help your blood form clots so you stop bleeding.
Red blood cells are the most abundant type of blood cell in your blood. They’re round with a slightly indented center and contain a protein called hemoglobin. Hemoglobin carries oxygen and removes carbon dioxide.
White blood cells are part of your immune system. These cells are round with a distinct center. Their job is to fight off unknown invaders by producing antibodies.

Hematocrit tests measure how much of your blood is red blood cells and determine if that amount is normal.

Hematocrit tests are sometimes done as part of routine blood tests, but your provider may order them if they suspect you have a red blood cell disorder. Your red blood cell levels may also be checked before you have surgery.

A red blood cell count outside the normal range can mean you have a disease or disorder. A low number of red blood cells is called anemia, while having too many red blood cells is called polycythemia.

Anemia. When you’re anemic, you don’t have enough red blood cells to carry oxygen to your tissues.

There are several different types of anemia. The most common type is iron deficiency anemia. Your bone marrow produces blood cells, and it needs iron to make hemoglobin. If you’re lacking iron, your body can’t produce enough hemoglobin for your red blood cells. This type of anemia is common in pregnant women and people who have experienced blood loss.

Other types of anemia include:

Anemias associated with bone marrow disease. Diseases, such as cancers like leukemia and myelofibrosis, can affect your bone marrow and may cause your bone marrow to underproduce blood cells.
Anemia of inflammation. Some types of inflammatory diseases, including cancer, Crohn’s disease, HIV/AIDS, kidney disease, and rheumatoid arthritis, can interfere with your body’s production of red blood cells.
Aplastic anemia.Aplastic anemia is a rare but life-threatening type of anemia in which your body doesn’t produce enough red blood cells. It can be caused by autoimmune diseases, infections, medicines, and toxins.
Hemolytic anemias. Hemolytic anemias happen when your red blood cells are destroyed faster than your body can replace them. You can be born with inherited hemolytic anemia, or you can acquire hemolytic anemia from some autoimmune disorders, cancers, infections, medicines, tumors, and viruses. Hemolytic anemia can also be acquired from an overactive spleen, a reaction to a blood transfusion, or a mechanical heart valve.
Sickle cell anemia.Sickle cell anemia is a genetic condition in which the red blood cells form a crescent, or sickle, shape due to defective hemoglobin. These oddly shaped red blood cells die quickly, causing your body to always be lacking enough red blood cells.
Vitamin deficiency anemia (pernicious anemia). Your body also needs vitamins, especially vitamin B12 and folate (B9), to produce healthy red blood cells. A lack of these vitamins, or inability to absorb B12, can cause your body to be unable to produce the red blood cells you need.

Symptoms of anemia may include:

Chest pain
Cold hands and feet
Dizziness or lightheadedness
Fatigue
Headaches
Irregular heartbeat
Pale or yellowish skin
Shortness of breath
Weakness

Polycythaemia. Polycythaemia, also called erythrocytosis, is caused by too many red blood cells, which can cause your blood to become thicker and travel slower through your blood vessels and organs. There are two types of absolute polycythemia, which means polycythemia caused by the overproduction of red blood cells: polycythemia vera (PV) and secondary polycythemia.

Polycythemia vera is a rare, slow-progressing bone marrow cancer. Most of the time it’s caused by a mutation on the JAK2 gene, a gene within the stem cells of bone marrow. This mutated gene tells your stem cells to reproduce constantly, The new cells also reproduce and, because they have this damaged gene, continue to reproduce until the abnormal cells overwhelm the normal cells. Most people are not born with this mutation; it happens sometime during your life, although doctors don’t know what causes it.

Secondary polycythemia happens when your body produces too much erythropoietin, a hormone made by the kidneys that tells your bone marrow to produce red blood cells. This can be caused by a problem with the kidneys, such as a tumor. It can also be caused by conditions that prevent your body from getting oxygen, like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and sleep apnea.

There are also conditions that cause your hematocrit level to rise because of too little plasma. These include apparent polycythemia and relative polycythemia. Apparent polycythemia is a lack of plasma that can be caused by drinking too much alcohol, smoking, and taking certain medications. Relative polycythemia happens when dehydration causes a lack of plasma.

Symptoms of polycythemia may include:

Bleeding problems like excessive bruising or bloody noses
Blurry vision
Confusion
Dizziness
Gout
Headaches
High blood pressure
Itchy skin
Red skin
Stomach discomfort
Tiredness

Both anemia and polycythemia can become life-threatening.

The hematocrit test is done like any other blood test. The lab will likely draw blood from a vein in your arm or hand. To determine your hematocrit, the lab spins your blood sample at a high speed. This causes the plasma and blood cells to separate, and the heavier red blood cells sink to the bottom of the tube. The amount is measured to calculate what percentage of your blood is red blood cells.

Normal ranges of hematocrit can vary depending on your age, race, and sex. Generally, normal ranges are considered to be:

For adult men, 38. 3%-48.6%
For adult women, 35.5%-44.9%
For newborns, 45%-61%
For infants, 32%-42%
For kids, 30%-44%

Some factors can cause abnormal hematocrit results despite no underlying disease. These include:

Living at a high altitude
Pregnancy
Recent blood transfusion
Severe dehydration
Severe recent blood loss

If your results come back and your hematocrit is abnormal, your doctor may order further testing to find the cause.

Top Picks

Hematocrit (HCT) | Ulta Lab Tests

The Hematocrit (HCT) test contains 1 test with 1 biomarker.

Description: The Hematocrit test is a blood test used to measure the percentage of red blood cells in your blood, usually for determining anemia.

Also Known As: HCT Test, Crit Test, Packed Cell Volume Test, PCV Test

Collection Method: Blood Draw

Specimen Type: Whole Blood

Test Preparation: No preparation required

When is a Hematocrit test ordered?

A full blood count usually includes a hematocrit measurement. It can also be ordered as part of a general health assessment, either by itself or in conjunction with a hemoglobin level. When a person develops signs and symptoms of a disorder that affects RBCs, such as anemia or polycythemia, these tests are frequently done.

When someone has signs and symptoms of severe dehydration, such as intense thirst, dry mouth or mucous membranes, and a lack of perspiration or urination, a hematocrit may be requested.

When someone has been identified with recurrent bleeding difficulties, anemia, or polycythemia, this test may be repeated numerous times or on a regular basis to check the success of treatment. It may also be ordered on a regular basis for persons receiving therapy for cancers that affect the bone marrow.

What does a Hematocrit blood test check for?

A hematocrit is a test that determines the percentage of red blood cells in a person’s blood. RBCs, white blood cells, and platelets are suspended in plasma, a fluid component of blood. The hematocrit is a ratio that compares the volume of red blood cells to the volume of all of these components together, which is known as whole blood. A percentage or fraction is used to express the value. A hematocrit of 40%, for example, indicates that there are 40 milliliters of red blood cells per 100 milliliters of blood.

The hematocrit is a quick and easy approach to assess a person’s red blood cells and screen for disorders like anemia. It’s frequently done in conjunction with a hemoglobin level, and it’s also a part of a complete blood count, which is commonly used to assess a person’s overall health.

RBCs are made in the bone marrow and discharged into the bloodstream when they are fully mature or almost so. They normally constitute about 37 to 49 percent of the blood volume. Hemoglobin, a protein that binds to oxygen, is found in RBCs. RBCs’ main job is to transport oxygen from the lungs to the body’s tissues and organs. They also transfer a little amount of carbon dioxide from tissues and organs back to the lungs, where it is exhaled.

RBCs have a 120-day lifespan, and the bone marrow must constantly manufacture new RBCs to replace those that have aged and degraded or have been lost due to hemorrhage. A variety of disorders can impact the bone marrow’s ability to produce new RBCs or the longevity of those already in circulation, as well as cause substantial bleeding.

The hematocrit measures both the number and volume of red blood cells. The hematocrit will drop when the size of the RBCs decreases, and vice versa. In general, the hematocrit will rise as the number of red blood cells increases, and it will fall to less than normal when the number of RBCs produced by the bone marrow decreases, the number of RBCs destroyed increases, or blood is lost due to hemorrhage. The overall amount of RBCs and hematocrit will diminish if the bone marrow is unable to manufacture new RBCs quickly enough, resulting in anemia.

Anemia is a condition in which the body is unable to provide adequate oxygen to tissues and organs, resulting in weariness and weakness. Too many RBCs are created in polycythemia, and the blood thickens, causing sluggish blood flow and other complications.

Lab tests often ordered with a Hematocrit test:

Hemoglobin
RBC Count
Blood Smear
Iron Total
Iron and Total Iron Binding Capacity
Ferritin
Reticulocyte Count
Vitamin B12
Folate
Complete Blood Count (CBC)
G6PD
Erythropoietin
Hemoglobinopathy Evaluation

Conditions where a Hematocrit test is recommended:

Anemia
Sickle Cell Anemia
Thalassemia
Myeloproliferative Neoplasms
Bone Marrow Disorders

How does my health care provider use a Hematocrit test?

The hematocrit test is frequently used to diagnose anemia, usually in conjunction with a hemoglobin test or as part of a full blood count. The test can be used to detect, diagnose, or track a variety of illnesses and disorders that impact the amount of red blood cells in the blood. RBCs are red blood cells that circulate in the blood and transport oxygen throughout the body.

Some circumstances influence RBC formation in the bone marrow, resulting in an increase or decrease in the number of mature RBCs discharged into circulation. The longevity of RBCs in the circulation may be affected by other factors. The overall number of RBCs and hematocrit will diminish if there is increased destruction or loss of RBCs, and/or the bone marrow is unable to make new ones quickly enough, leading in anemia.

The hematocrit can tell if there’s a problem with RBCs, but it can’t tell what’s causing it. A blood smear, reticulocyte count, iron studies, vitamin B levels, and, in more severe cases, a bone marrow examination are some of the other tests that may be conducted at the same time or as follow-up to establish a reason.

What do my Hematocrit test results mean?

Red blood cells make up between 37 percent to 49 percent of the total amount of blood.

Because a hematocrit is frequently performed as part of a complete blood count, other components including RBC count, hemoglobin, reticulocyte count, and/or red blood cell indices are taken into account. Other considerations include age, gender, and race. In general, the hematocrit reflects the RBC count and hemoglobin readings.

Anemia is diagnosed by a low hematocrit, low RBC count, and low hemoglobin.

We advise having your results reviewed by a licensed medical healthcare professional for proper interpretation of your results.

Blood test for hematocrit – prices from 30 rubles. in Moscow, 78 addresses

Determination of hematocrit is a clinical study that provides information on the ratio of the volume of erythrocytes and the liquid part of the blood. It reflects the level of oxygen exchange between the lungs and tissues of the body, the degree of hemoconcentration. The study of hematocrit is part of a complete blood count. The results are used to diagnose and monitor anemia and polycythemia, evaluate the effectiveness of therapeutic measures, in particular blood transfusions, determine the degree of dehydration, thickening or thinning of the blood, and determining the need for a blood transfusion. Blood sampling for analysis is carried out from a vein or capillaries. The hematocrit value is determined using standard centrifugation or in an automatic hematology analyzer. Reference values for men – 39-51%, for women – 35-47%. The timing of the analysis does not exceed a day.

Hematocrit is a laboratory measure of the complete blood count, which reflects the ratio of the volume of red blood cells to the volume of plasma. The final value is expressed as a percentage and indicates the ability of the blood to carry oxygen. An increase in hematocrit is determined when the level of red blood cells in the blood increases or the amount of its liquid part decreases. Such conditions can be triggered by both diseases, such as polycythemia, and physiological conditions. The hematocrit decreases with a decrease in the level of erythrocytes and the intake of a large amount of fluid, which increases the plasma volume. Changes of this nature occur, for example, with blood loss followed by the introduction of saline.

Hematocrit depends not only on the concentration of red blood cells, but also on their size. So, with iron deficiency anemia, the size of red blood cells decreases, the hematocrit decreases. In clinical and laboratory practice, to determine this indicator, blood is taken from capillaries, less often from a vein. The result is expressed as a percentage or through a fractional number, reflecting the concentration of erythrocytes – l / l. The research procedure is performed in two ways – hematocrit can be determined using standard centrifugation or using a hematological analyzer. The test results are used in general therapeutic practice, in pediatrics, hematology, resuscitation, surgery and other areas of medicine.

Indications

The hematocrit test is part of the complete blood count. The study is performed during preventive examinations for the purpose of early detection of diseases and conditions accompanied by anemia, dehydration, polycythemia, polyglobulia, bleeding (hidden). Purposefully, the analysis is prescribed for suspected anemia, the symptoms of which are weakness, fatigue, headaches and dizziness, pallor and dry skin, brittle nails, and weight loss are objectively determined. The results of hematocrit allow to identify the pathology, establish the degree of its severity and track the effectiveness of the treatment, but do not indicate its cause.

Other indications for CBC with hematocrit include primary and secondary polycythemia. With these diseases, an increase in the number of red blood cells occurs. A hematocrit test is performed in primary polycythemia, when an increase in the concentration of red blood cells is associated with an increase in their production in the red bone marrow, and in secondary polycythemia associated with diseases of the cardiovascular and respiratory systems, kidney pathologies, and tumors. The determination of the hematocrit value is used in the diagnosis of conditions of dehydration, in bleeding, to resolve the issue of the need for blood transfusion and the introduction of saline, to monitor the effectiveness of these procedures.

A hematocrit test without examining the level of red blood cells and their morphology does not provide enough information to detect various hematological disorders. For the diagnosis of anemia and polycythemia, it is necessary to determine several indicators, including the number of erythrocytes, hemoglobin, ferritin, serum iron, transferrin, erythropoietin, OZhSS. In clinical practice, the study of hematocrit has become widespread due to the cost-effectiveness of the procedure, its reproducibility and availability. These three criteria are especially important for primary, including preventive examinations of large groups of patients.

Preparation for analysis and collection of material

When performing a general blood test with the determination of hematocrit, blood is taken in the morning, on an empty stomach. Special preparation for the sampling procedure is not required, but it is important to follow a few recommendations: the day before the study, you should refrain from drinking alcohol, at least 8-12 hours should pass after eating, you should stop smoking and physical activity in half an hour, avoid the effects of stressful factors. During the conversation with the doctor, it is worth informing him about the medications being taken so that their possible effect on the hematocrit value is taken into account when interpreting the results. There are no restrictions on the use of pure water.

Most often, blood for hematocrit testing is taken from the ring finger. The procedure is performed using a pen-scarifier or lancet. If a doctor recommends venous blood sampling, then a puncture of the cubital vein is performed. After taking, the biomaterial is mixed with an anticoagulant to prevent the clotting process. In laboratories, two methods are used to determine hematocrit – standard centrifugation and using a hematology analyzer. Their essence lies in the fact that in the process of centrifugation (rapid rotation), heavier and bulkier particles (erythrocytes) settle to the bottom. Then the height of the lower layer is determined and its percentage to the total height of the liquid is calculated. Preparation of the results of this study takes no more than 1 working day.

Normal values

Hematocrit values are expressed as percentages or fractions. The values of the norm depend on age and gender. For men, they range from 39 to 51% or from 0.39 to 0.51. In women, the hematocrit is lower, since the blood is renewed more often, the norm values are from 35 to 47% or from 0.35 to 0.47. In children, the indicator is determined by age:

from birth to 7 days – 42-66%;
from 7 days to 1 month – 36-63%;
from 1 to 6 months – 30-48%;
from 6 months to 2 years – 33-39%;
from 2 to 6 years – 33-39%;
from 6 to 12 years old – 35-45%;
from 12 to 15 years old – 36-49%;
from 15 to 18 years old – 37-49% for boys, 36-46% for girls.

A physiological change in hematocrit is observed during pregnancy, from the 20th week the values gradually decrease, and before childbirth they increase to normal values. Some increase in the indicator is possible with oxygen starvation caused by frequent smoking, staying in high mountainous areas.

Increased value

An increase in hematocrit can be caused by an increase in the volume of red blood cells. Changes of this nature are observed in diseases accompanied by an increase in the number or size of red blood cells – with redistributive and true erythrocytosis, primary and secondary polycythemia, compensatory reactions of the cardiovascular system. Another reason for an increase in hematocrit is a decrease in the liquid part of the blood. Dehydration can be caused by burn disease, peritonitis, profuse diarrhea, vomiting, intestinal obstruction, hyperhidrosis.

Decreased value

One of the reasons for the decrease in hematocrit values is erythropenia – a decrease in the number of red blood cells in the blood. The level of red blood cells falls when their production in the red bone marrow is disturbed in anemia, leukemia, long-term use of cytostatics and anticancer drugs. Sometimes the number of red blood cells in the blood is reduced due to their intense destruction. Such changes occur with hemolytic anemia, poisoning with hemolytic poisons, typhoid fever, malaria. After bleeding and restoration of circulating blood volume with saline, a temporary decrease in the level of red blood cells and hematocrit values \u200b\u200bis also determined.

Another cause of low hematocrit values is excessive fluid intake, which leads to blood thinning, a change in the percentage of red blood cells and plasma. The cause of overhydration can be water intoxication with circulatory failure, impaired renal function. Another reason for a decrease in hematocrit values is hyperproteinemia, or an increase in the level of proteins in the blood. With such changes, the binding and retention of water in the body occurs. Hyperproteinemia develops in various conditions – with vomiting, diarrhea, acute infections, myeloma, Hodgkin’s lymphoma, paraproteinemic hemoblastoses.

Treatment of abnormalities

Hematocrit testing is performed routinely as part of a complete blood count. The test is an economical way to diagnose and monitor hematological disorders (anemia, polycythemia), dehydration conditions. If the final indicator deviates from the norm, then it is necessary to consult a general practitioner, pediatrician, hematologist to establish the cause of the violations and prescribe treatment. It is possible to prevent the influence of physiological factors on the hematocrit index if you follow the rules for preparing for the blood donation procedure – quit smoking, heavy physical exertion.

Why is a general blood test prescribed and what does it show?

Complete blood count is a traditional tool for medical diagnostics. This research method allows you to assess the general state of human health, and is also used to diagnose and control the treatment of many diseases. In this article, you will learn what exactly this analysis shows and how to decipher its indicators.

This test is for:

General health assessments.
Diagnostics of various diseases and disorders such as anemia, inflammation, infection, bleeding disorders, leukemia.
Monitoring the effectiveness of treatment after the initial diagnosis.
Monitor treatments that may affect blood cells – these treatments include radiation and chemotherapy.

This test counts the number of blood cells that circulate in the blood. The latter consists of three types of cells suspended in plasma: white blood cells (leukocytes), red cells (erythrocytes), and platelets. They are primarily produced and matured in the bone marrow and released into the bloodstream as needed.

Complete blood counts provide information about more than just cell count. They may also indicate the physical characteristics of some of them. Standard analysis evaluates:

White cells (leukocytes): calculation of their total number; also this indicator may include the differentiation of leukocytes.
Red blood cells (erythrocytes): calculation of their total number. This also includes hemoglobin, hematocrit, and erythrocyte indices. These indices include: the average corpuscular volume of erythrocytes, the average erythrocyte hemoglobin, the average concentration of corpuscular hemoglobin and the width of the distribution of erythrocytes. The red blood cell score may also include the reticulocyte count.
Platelets : their total number; may include mean platelet volume and/or platelet distribution width.

If the results of the general blood test have significant deviations in one or more components, this may indicate the presence of a pathological process in the body. In this case, the patient is prescribed additional tests that are necessary to clarify the cause of the abnormal performance. As a rule, in this situation, a blood smear is examined under a microscope: the appearance and physical properties of blood cells are evaluated. These properties include the size, shape, and color of blood cells. This provides the doctor with additional information and helps determine the cause of abnormal readings.

Detailed interpretation of the complete blood count

In order for you to better understand what certain indicators indicate, we will take a closer look at the properties and components of blood cells.

White blood cells

There are 5 types of white blood cells, also called leukocytes. They help maintain health by fighting infections. These include: neutrophils, lymphocytes, basophils, eosinophils and monocytes. These cells are in the blood in a relatively stable concentration, however, depending on what is happening in the body, the rate of white blood cells in the blood may change for a while.

For example, a bacterial infection can stimulate our bodies to produce more neutrophils. If a person has an allergy, he may experience an increase in the concentration of eosinophils in the blood. When lymphocytes in the blood rise above normal, this indicates a possible viral infection in the body. In some disease states, such as leukemia, white cells multiply rapidly, causing the total number of white cells in the blood to rise.

Red blood cells

Red blood cells are produced in the bone marrow and released into the bloodstream as they mature. They contain hemoglobin, a protein that transports oxygen to all body tissues. The typical lifespan of red cells is 120 days. For this reason, the bone marrow must constantly produce new red blood cells in place of the old ones that decay. Many disorders can affect the production of red blood cells, as well as their lifespan. Plus, some diseases can lead to significant blood loss. That is why the indicators of red blood cells in the blood are extremely important for human health.

Complete blood count does not only count the total number of red blood cells. This study makes it possible to estimate the amount of hemoglobin and the proportion of red cells in the total blood volume (hematocrit). Also, this analysis helps to detect abnormalities in the shape or size of red blood cells. In a healthy person, red cells look almost the same and have only minimal differences in shape or size. However, with a deficiency of vitamin B12, folic acid, iron, as well as other disorders, the size and shape of red blood cells can differ significantly from each other.

If the concentration of red blood cells and / or the amount of hemoglobin in the blood falls below normal, this indicates anemia. This disorder is characterized by symptoms such as fatigue and general weakness. Very rarely, red cells exceed the norm, in which case the person develops a disorder called erythrocytosis or polycythemia. In extreme cases, these conditions can prevent blood from passing through small veins and arteries.

Platelets

Complete blood count counts the number of platelets and also allows you to estimate their size. Platelets are special cell fragments that play a critical role in the blood clotting process. A person with a low platelet count is at increased risk for excessive bleeding and bruising. If the platelet count is higher than normal, the patient is at risk for excessive blood clotting.

How to decipher the complete blood count?

After the person has performed the analysis and the laboratory has conducted the study, he is given a form with the results. On it, the patient sees a table with norm indicators, with which doctors compare the figures obtained after the study. In order to get a rough picture of what is happening in the body, compare the results of the analysis with the tables below.

White blood cells (leukocytes)

Values	Possible causes for low values	901 64 Possible causes for elevated values
White blood cells (total)	Nutritional deficiencies in the diet, Bone marrow damage or dysfunction, Autoimmune disease, Severe infections (sepsis), Diseases of the immune system (HIV/AIDS), Lymphoma or other cancer that has spread to the bone marrow.	Infection, mostly viral or bacterial, Inflammatory process in the body, Leukemia, myeloproliferative disorders, Allergies, asthma, ma, burn, heart attack), Intensive exercise or extreme stress.
Leukocyte differentiation:
Neutrophils 9000 5	Very severe infection (sepsis), Autoimmune disease, Nutritional deficiencies, Admission response drugs, chemotherapy, Immunodeficiency, Myelodysplasia, Damage to the bone marrow (chemotherapy, radiation therapy) Cancer that spreads to the bone marrow.	Acute bacterial infection, Inflammatory process in the body, Injury, burns or heart attack, Intense training or severe stress, Some types of leukemia myeloid), Cushing’s syndrome.
Lymphocytes , typhoid, HIV), Bone marrow damage (chemotherapy, radiation therapy), Corticosteroids.	Acute viral infection (chickenpox, cytomegalovirus, Epstein-Barr virus, herpes, rubella), Chronic inflammatory disease (example – ulcerative colitis), Lymphocytic leukemia, lymphoma, Severe stress.
Monocytes	As a rule, a one-time decrease in monocytes has no medical significance. A decrease in monocytes on repeat tests may indicate: Damage or insufficiency of the bone marrow, Hairy cell leukemia, Aplastic anemia.	Chronic infections (examples – tuberculosis, fungal infection), Infection in the heart (bacterial endocarditis), Collagen vascular diseases (lupus, scleroderma, rheumatoid arthritis, vasculitis), Monocytic or myelomonocytic leukemia.
Eosinophils	Normally, their concentration in the blood is very low.	Asthma, allergies, Drug reactions, Parasitic infections, Inflammatory diseases (inflammatory bowel disease, celiac disease), Certain cancers, leukemia or lymphoma, Addison’s disease.
Basophils	Normally, their concentration in the blood is very low.	Rare allergic reactions (food allergy, urticaria), Inflammation (rheumatoid arthritis, ulcerative colitis), Some types of leukemia, Uremia.

Red blood cells (erythrocytes)

902 23

Possible causes for elevated values 

Values	Possible causes for low values
Red blood cells (total)	Low count red blood cells is called anemia. Causes: Acute or chronic bleeding, Destruction of red blood cells (hemolytic anemia), Deficiency of iron, vitamin B12 or folic acid in the diet, Bone marrow damage or abnormalities, Chronic inflammatory disease, Chronic kidney disease.	Dehydration, Lung disease, Kidney cancer or other cancer that produces too much erythropoietin, Smoking, Altitude living, 900 68 Genetic causes (changes in oxygen sensitivity, problems with the release of oxygen by hemoglobin).
Hemoglobin	Usually reflects information from total red blood cells. Provides additional information only.	Provides additional information only.
Hematocrit	Usually reflects information from total red blood cells.	Usually reflects information from total red blood cells. The main cause of elevated hematocrit is dehydration.
Red blood cell indices: red blood cell volume	Indicates that red blood cells are smaller than usual. Possible causes: Iron deficiency anemia, Thalassemia.		Indicates that red blood cells are larger than usual. Possible causes: Anemia due to vitamin B12 or folic acid deficiency, Myelodysplasia, Liver disease, Hypothyroidism.
Average erythrocyte hemoglobin	Reflects the mean corpuscular volume of erythrocytes.		Reflects the average corpuscular volume of erythrocytes.
Average concentration of corpuscular hemoglobin	May decrease if mean corpuscular volume of erythrocytes is also reduced. Possible causes: iron deficiency anemia and thalassemia.		Increases if there is too much hemoglobin in red blood cells. Possible causes: Autoimmune hemolytic anemia, Burns, Hereditary spherocytosis (rare congenital disorder).

Platelets

9016 1

Values 

Possible causes for low values 

Possible causes for high values 

Total platelet count

Viral infection (mononucleosis, hepatitis, measles),

Autoimmune platelet disease,

Medications (paracetamol, quinidine, sulfa drugs),

Cirrhosis,

Autoimmune diseases,

Sepsis,

Lake emia, lymphoma,

Myelodysplasia,

Radiation or chemotherapy.

Rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, inflammatory bowel disease,

Iron deficiency anemia,

Hemolytic anemia,

Myeloproliferative disorder (example: essential thrombocythemia),

Cancer of the lung, ovary, stomach or intestines, breast, lymphoma.