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Clinical Laboratory Test:
whole blood — hematocrit

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Description

The hematocrit test is a clinical test used to measure the percentage of red blood cells in a patient's whole blood. It is a simple and quick test that can provide important information about a patient's health.

The hematocrit test is typically performed by drawing a sample of the patient's blood and spinning it in a centrifuge. The centrifuge separates the red blood cells from the other components of the blood, such as plasma and white blood cells. The percentage of red blood cells is then measured and reported as the hematocrit.

The hematocrit test is a useful tool for diagnosing and monitoring a variety of conditions, including anemia, dehydration, and certain types of cancer. It can also be used to monitor the effectiveness of treatments for these conditions.

Synonyms
  • crit
  • Hct
  • packed cell volume
  • PCV
Some Diseases Associated with an Abnormal Hematocrit
Detailed Laboratory Testing Information (use the custom search buttons below to find details on these topics)

All of the following must be considered when interpreting clinical findings and are too extensive to be covered on this site: