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Lab Test

Hematocrit / Packed Cell Volume (PCV) Test

The Hematocrit or Packed Cell Volume (PCV) test is a blood test that measures the proportion of the volume of blood that is made up of red blood cells. The test is used to evaluate the overall health status and to diagnose and monitor various conditions that can affect the proportion of the blood composed of red blood cells, such as anemia and polycythemia.

  • Profile Name: Hematocrit / Packed Cell Volume (PCV) Test
  • Sample Type: Blood
  • Preparations Required: Men: 38.8% to 50.0%, Women: 34.9% to 44.5%
  • Report Time: 4 hours

Hematocrit (Hct) is a value that represents the percentage of red blood cells in the blood. Since red blood cells are essential for the transport of oxygen through the blood, the hematocrit value is an important parameter in evaluating the oxygen-carrying capacity of the blood.

In the hematocrit test, a sample of blood is taken, typically from a vein in the arm. The blood sample is then centrifuged, which means it is spun at high speed in a machine. This causes the blood cells to pack at the bottom of the tube. The packed volume of the red blood cells is then compared to the total blood volume. The result is given as a percentage.

For example, a hematocrit of 45% means that there are 45 milliliters of red blood cells in 100 milliliters of blood.

  • A health care provider will clean the site, typically the inside of the elbow.
  • A tourniquet will be applied above the site to increase blood flow.
  • A needle will be inserted into a vein and blood is drawn into a vial or syringe.
  • The blood sample is then sent to the laboratory for analysis.
  • Normal Range:
    • Men: 38.8% to 50.0%
    • Women: 34.9% to 44.5%
  • Low Hematocrit: A low hematocrit indicates a lower than normal concentration of red blood cells, which may be due to conditions like anemia, malnutrition, or bone marrow problems.
  • High Hematocrit: A high hematocrit indicates a higher than normal concentration of red blood cells. This may be due to polycythemia, dehydration, or other conditions.
  • Simple and Quick: Hematocrit testing is a standard procedure that can be quickly performed with minimal discomfort to the patient.
  • Informative: It provides valuable information about the proportion of red blood cells, which is essential for the proper transport of oxygen throughout the body.
  • Monitoring: The test is used to monitor treatment for diseases such as anemia and polycythemia.
  • Not Definitive: Abnormal hematocrit levels can be an indicator of various underlying conditions, but additional tests are usually needed to diagnose the specific condition.
  • Affected by Dehydration: Hematocrit levels can be artificially elevated in cases of dehydration.

Home Sample Collection Process

1
Book your convenient slot
Book your convenient slot
2
Sample Collection by Phlebotomist
Sample Collection by Phlebotomist
3
Reporting of the sample at lab
Reporting of the sample at lab
4
Download Reports
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Frequently Asked Questions

The frequency of hematocrit testing depends on various factors including your health history, whether you have a chronic illness, or if you are on medications that affect red blood cell counts.

The hematocrit test is relatively safe. However, as it involves drawing blood, there is a slight risk of bruising, bleeding, or infection at the puncture site.

Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including proper diet and regular exercise, is important. In some cases, medication or other treatments might be necessary to manage abnormal hematocrit levels.

John, a 60-year-old man, visits his doctor with complaints of fatigue and dizziness. His doctor orders a CBC, including a hematocrit test. The test results show that John has a hematocrit level of 32%, which is below the normal range. His doctor diagnoses him with anemia and prescribes iron supplements. John is also advised to eat a diet rich in iron. After 3 months of treatment, John's hematocrit level increases to 38%, and his symptoms of fatigue and dizziness improve.

The Hematocrit or Packed Cell Volume (PCV) test is a basic but essential blood test that provides information about the proportion of red blood cells in the blood. It's an important parameter for evaluating the oxygen-carrying capacity of the blood. While a simple test, it is a crucial component in the diagnosis and monitoring of various health conditions, and is often part of a complete blood count (CBC). Like all tests, the hematocrit test is most effective when used in conjunction with other diagnostic information.

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