Packed Cell Volume (PCV) / Hematocrit – HM071
🩸 Anemia & Hydration Check
₹1599
MRP ₹1700
Sample Time: 4:30 PM
Report: Same Day (Except Sunday)
Sample Type: Blood (EDTA)
Test Code: HM071
Report: Same Day (Except Sunday)
Sample Type: Blood (EDTA)
Test Code: HM071
About this Test:
The Packed Cell Volume (PCV) test, also known as Hematocrit, measures the proportion of blood volume that is occupied by red blood cells. It is expressed as a percentage. For example, a PCV of 40% means that there are 40 milliliters of red blood cells in 100 milliliters of blood.
✔ A primary test to diagnose Anemia (low PCV).
✔ Used to detect Polycythemia (high PCV).
✔ An excellent indicator of hydration status (dehydration causes falsely high PCV).
✔ No fasting is required.
The Packed Cell Volume (PCV) test, also known as Hematocrit, measures the proportion of blood volume that is occupied by red blood cells. It is expressed as a percentage. For example, a PCV of 40% means that there are 40 milliliters of red blood cells in 100 milliliters of blood.
✔ A primary test to diagnose Anemia (low PCV).
✔ Used to detect Polycythemia (high PCV).
✔ An excellent indicator of hydration status (dehydration causes falsely high PCV).
✔ No fasting is required.
Understanding Your Hematocrit Levels
Red blood cells are essential for carrying oxygen to your body's tissues. The PCV test tells your doctor if you have too few or too many red blood cells.
Low PCV (Anemia)
A lower-than-normal percentage typically indicates anemia. This means there are fewer red blood cells to carry oxygen, leading to fatigue and weakness. Causes include:
- Nutritional deficiencies (Iron, Vitamin B12, Folate)
- Blood loss (internal or external bleeding)
- Bone marrow disorders
- Chronic kidney disease
High PCV (Polycythemia)
A higher-than-normal percentage can indicate polycythemia (an excess of red blood cells), which makes the blood thicker and increases the risk of clots. Causes include:
- Dehydration: This is the most common cause. As the fluid volume of the blood drops, the concentration of cells effectively rises.
- Lung diseases (COPD) causing low oxygen levels.
- Living at high altitudes.
- Polycythemia Vera (a bone marrow disease).
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: What is the difference between PCV and Hematocrit?
They are essentially the same thing. PCV (Packed Cell Volume) usually refers to the manual method of spinning blood in a tube, while Hematocrit is the automated calculation performed by blood analyzers. Both report the percentage of red blood cells in the blood.
They are essentially the same thing. PCV (Packed Cell Volume) usually refers to the manual method of spinning blood in a tube, while Hematocrit is the automated calculation performed by blood analyzers. Both report the percentage of red blood cells in the blood.
Q2: What does a low PCV level mean?
A low PCV means you have a low percentage of red blood cells. This is the definition of anemia. It suggests your body isn't getting enough oxygen, which can cause tiredness, dizziness, and shortness of breath.
A low PCV means you have a low percentage of red blood cells. This is the definition of anemia. It suggests your body isn't getting enough oxygen, which can cause tiredness, dizziness, and shortness of breath.
Q3: Can dehydration affect my PCV result?
Yes, significantly. If you are dehydrated, your plasma volume (the liquid part of blood) decreases, making the red blood cells more concentrated. This results in a falsely high PCV. Rehydrating will bring the number back down.
Yes, significantly. If you are dehydrated, your plasma volume (the liquid part of blood) decreases, making the red blood cells more concentrated. This results in a falsely high PCV. Rehydrating will bring the number back down.
Q4: Do I need to fast for this test?
No, fasting is not required for a PCV/Hematocrit test.
No, fasting is not required for a PCV/Hematocrit test.
Q5: Is this test part of a CBC?
Yes, the PCV/Hematocrit is a standard component of a Complete Blood Count (CBC). However, it can also be ordered as a standalone test to monitor specific conditions like dengue or anemia treatment.
Yes, the PCV/Hematocrit is a standard component of a Complete Blood Count (CBC). However, it can also be ordered as a standalone test to monitor specific conditions like dengue or anemia treatment.