Test Detail
Understanding the Test
Test Measures
Interpreting Results
FAQ's
City Price Info
Home Collection
References
Other Tests
Content created by
Written by
Reviewed by
Dr. Ashish Ranjan
MBBS, MD (Pharmacology)
Want to know more?
Read our Editorial Policy

Hematocrit

Also known as Packed Cell Volume
120170 29% Off
You need to provide
Blood
This test is for
Male, Female
Test Preparation
  1. No special preparation is required.

Understanding Hematocrit


What is Hematocrit?

The Hematocrit test (HCT), also known as the packed cell volume (PCV) test, measures the proportion of red blood cells (RBCs) in the blood. This test helps detect blood disorders and other medical conditions. It is often done as part of a complete blood count test that also measures other types of blood cells.

Human blood consists of red blood cells (RBCs), white blood cells (WBCs) or leukocytes, and platelets suspended in a fluid called plasma. RBCs transport oxygen throughout the body; thus, their optimal number is vital for health. 

The Hematocrit test (HCT) measures the proportion of RBCs in your blood. The result is expressed as a percentage and represents the volume of red blood cells compared to the total blood volume. For example, if the hematocrit value is 50%, it means that 50% of your blood is made up of red blood cells. If the HCT level is too high, it may indicate dehydration, polycythemia (an excess of red blood cells), or other conditions that cause the blood to become more concentrated. On the other hand, a low hematocrit level could be a sign of anemia or other blood-related issues. Additionally, the Hematocrit test also helps monitor treatment efficacy for anemia or polycythemia. No special preparation is needed for this test; eat or drink as per your daily routine while taking this test. 

Test result ranges are approximate and may differ slightly between labs depending on the methodology and laboratory guidelines. Talk to your doctor about your specific test results. The hematocrit test is a valuable tool for doctors and is often used in combination with other blood tests to get a complete picture of your overall health.

What is Hematocrit used for?

The Hematocrit test is done:

  • As part of a complete blood count test to monitor your overall health.

  • If you have symptoms suggestive of anemia, such as weakness, fatigue, pale skin, etc.

  • If you have symptoms suggestive of polycythemia, such as headache, dizziness, weakness, bleeding gums, blurred vision, etc.

  • If your healthcare provider suspects you have a red blood cell disorder. 

  • To monitor treatment efficacy for anemia or polycythemia.

  • To detect dehydration.

What does Hematocrit measure?

The Hematocrit test measures the proportion of red blood cells (RBCs) in your blood as a percentage of the total blood volume. It is a crucial part of a complete blood count (CBC) and helps in assessing your blood health. RBCs are responsible for carrying oxygen from the lungs to different parts of the body. The hematocrit test provides valuable information about your blood's oxygen-carrying capacity.

Higher-than-normal amounts of RBCs produced by the bone marrow can cause the hematocrit to increase, leading to increased blood density and slow blood flow. On the other hand, lower-than-normal hematocrit can be caused by low production of RBCs, reduced lifespan of RBCs in circulation, or excessive bleeding, leading to a reduced amount of oxygen being transported by RBCs. Monitoring your hematocrit levels is essential for diagnosing and managing various blood-related disorders.

Interpreting Hematocrit results


Interpretations

Adult male

40-50%

Adult female

36-46%

Note: Normal range of Hematocrit depends on several factors apart from age, including gender, health condition, previous instance of diseases, etc. The range also varies slightly between different laboratories performing the test.

Lower-than-normal packed cell volume for RBCs indicates a low amount of RBCs in circulation and causes anemia.

Higher-than-normal packed cell volume for RBCs indicates a high amount of RBCs in circulation and causes polycythemia.

Hematocrit Test results are to be interpreted with the results of other tests including blood iron tests, RBC count, and hemoglobin tests while evaluating anemia.

Answers to Patient Concerns & Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Hematocrit


Frequently Asked Questions about Hematocrit

Q. What factors can affect the results of the Hematocrit test?

Several factors can affect the results of the Hematocrit test, including pregnancy, living at high altitudes, significant blood loss, recent blood transfusion, and severe dehydration.

Q. Is there any risk associated with the Hematocrit test?

There is usually no risk associated with this test. However, some people may feel a slight sting while the needle is pricked and may experience some bleeding that is normal and usually not bothersome. Rarely some people may experience slight swelling or bruising at the site of the needle prick. Applying ice 3-4 times a day for about a week may help reduce swelling and bruising. If it does not get better, consult your doctor.

Q. Can high HCT levels cause high blood pressure (BP)?

Increased HCT level is usually associated with elevation of systemic blood pressure (BP) due to the increase in blood viscosity.

Q. Which hormone controls RBC production?

Erythropoietin hormone, produced mainly in the kidneys, stimulates the production and maintenance of red blood cells.
+ more

Hematocrit test price for other cities


Price inBangaloreRs. 139
Price inKolkataRs. 120
Price inNew DelhiRs. 120
Price inChennaiRs. 139
Price inPuneRs. 130
+ more

Book a Hematocrit test at home near me

Easy online booking
Search for tests and packages, book a time and select address for seamless at-home lab tests.
Live tracking of phlebotomist
Stay informed with live tracking of our phlebotomist's location for seamless sample collection.
Safe collection
Our phlebotomists follow strict safety protocols to collect samples at home on time.
Sample received at lab
Your sample is bought to our laboratory for testing by our qualified experts.
Quick reports, free follow up
Reports are sent to your email. A free doctor follow up is provided to understand the report better.

INDIA’S LARGEST HEALTHCARE PLATFORM

260m+
Visitors
31m+
Orders Delivered
1800+
Cities
Get the link to download App
Reliable

All products displayed on Tata 1mg are procured from verified and licensed pharmacies. All labs listed on the platform are accredited

Secure

Tata 1mg uses Secure Sockets Layer (SSL) 128-bit encryption and is Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI DSS) compliant

Affordable

Find affordable medicine substitutes, save up to 50% on health products, up to 80% off on lab tests and free doctor consultations.

Know more about Tata 1mgdownArrow

Access medical and health information

Tata 1mg provides you with medical information which is curated, written and verified by experts, accurate and trustworthy. Our experts create high-quality content about medicines, diseases, lab investigations, Over-The-Counter (OTC) health products, Ayurvedic herbs/ingredients, and alternative remedies.

Order medicines online

Get free medicine home delivery in over 1800 cities across India. You can also order Ayurvedic, Homeopathic and other Over-The-Counter (OTC) health products. Your safety is our top priority. All products displayed on Tata 1mg are procured from verified and licensed pharmacies.

Book lab tests

Book any lab tests and preventive health packages from certified labs and get tested from the comfort of your home. Enjoy free home sample collection, view reports online and consult a doctor online for free.

Consult a doctor online

Got a health query? Consult doctors online from the comfort of your home for free. Chat privately with our registered medical specialists to connect directly with verified doctors. Your privacy is guaranteed.