Parameter Included: 1
Parameter Included: 1
Reliable, JODHPUR
RDC
: Jodhpur
Reliable, Global Hospital Jodhpur
RDC
: Aastha Hospital, Jodhpur
Reliable, Morena
RDC
: Global Hospital, Jodhpur
Reliable, Morena
RDC
: Global Hospital, Jodhpur
Reliable, Aastha Hospital Jodhpur
RDC
: Jain Child Care Clinic, Jodhpur
Reliable, Jain child care clinic
RDC
: Near Mdm Hospital, Jodhpur
Packed Cell Volume (PCV), also known as hematocrit test, is performed to measure the proportion of blood made up of erythrocytes or red blood cells (RBCs). Human blood is made up of RBCs, white blood cells (WBCs) or leukocytes and platelets which are suspended in a fluid called plasma. This test helps you to diagnose and determine the severity of conditions causing anemia or polycythemia. Lower than normal pcv value indicates low amount of RBCs in circulation (indicating anemia) whereas higher than normal pcv indicates high amount of RBCs in circulation (indicating polycythemia). It also helps to monitor treatment efficacy for anemia or polycythemia, determine if blood transfusion is necessary and assess dehydration. It also forms a vital part of Complete Blood Count (CBC) Test in regular health checkups.
It is a measurement often used in healthcare to assess the concentration of RBCs and to evaluate a person's overall health.
To determine hematocrit levels, a sample of blood is taken and spun in a centrifuge to separate the blood components. The RBCs settle at the bottom, while the plasma, which contains other blood components like white blood cells and platelets, rises to the top. The hematocrit level is expressed as a percentage, representing the volume of RBCs compared to the total blood volume.
Hematocrit values may vary depending on a person's age, sex, and overall health. In healthy adults, normal hematocrit ranges are typically between 38% and 52% for men and between 35% and 47% for women. Values lower or higher than these ranges may indicate certain medical conditions or physiological changes.
Low hematocrit, known as anemia, can be caused by factors such as nutritional deficiencies, chronic diseases, bone marrow disorders, or excessive bleeding. Anemia can result in symptoms like fatigue, weakness, shortness of breath, and pale skin.
On the other hand, high hematocrit levels, known as polycythemia, can be caused by conditions like dehydration, lung diseases, heart diseases, or bone marrow disorders. Elevated hematocrit can lead to increased blood viscosity and pose a risk for blood clot formation.
Interpreting hematocrit levels should be done in conjunction with other blood tests and clinical information. Additionally, healthcare professionals take into account the individual's medical history and specific circumstances to provide an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment if necessary.
Hematocrit measurement is commonly used in various medical fields, including primary care, hematology, and critical care, to assess blood health, monitor response to treatment, and evaluate conditions affecting RBC production and function.