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What is a PCV Test?
A PCV (Packed Cell Volume) Test is done to diagnose anemia or polycythemia in patients. It is generally done along with a full blood count test that is conducted to estimate the need for any blood transfusions and monitor the response to the blood transfusion treatment.
Blood is a mix of plasma as well as cells. The PCV test can measure how much of the blood consists of cells. If the PCV results show a reading of 50%, it denotes that 50 ml of cells is present in exactly 100 ml of blood. If the RBC (Red Blood Cell) number increases, then the total reading of the PCV will also be up. This number can also increase due to dehydration.
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Frequently Asked Questions:
What is the PCV test used for?
A PCV or Packed Cell Volume Test, is a general blood screening done to diagnose dehydration (low body fluids or blood volume), polycythemia (high level of red blood cells), or anemia (low levels of red blood cells) in certain patients. PCV estimates the portion of blood made up of cells and is prescribed by a medical professional after noticing the patient's condition and symptoms.
Understanding the test results of PCV (Packed Cell Volume) test
A lower number of the PCV means that the red blood cell count is less, which can be due to many reasons such as blood loss, cell destruction, and less bone marrow production. An increased PCV generally means that the person is dehydrated, and there is a higher number of RBC production.
Why do I need a PCV test?
The PCV test is a part of the full blood count and estimates the percentage or fraction of cells in the blood. If your doctor suspects that you have anemia, i.e. low level of red blood cells, polycythemia, i.e. high level of red blood cells, or dehydration, i.e. low body fluids or blood volume, they may advise this test.
What happens during a PCV Test?
A blood sample is taken with the help of a needle, generally from a vein in your arm. The site may feel tender to you for some time, but there are no long-term effects, and you'll be able to do your normal activities afterwards.
What is packed cell volume (PCV) in a blood test?
The packed cell volume is a measurement of the proportion of blood that is made up of cells. The value is expressed as a percentage. For example, a PCV of 40% means that there are 40 millilitres of cells in 100 millilitres of blood.
What is normal PCV in a blood test?
The PCV test value is either expressed as a percentage or fraction. A normal PCV range in a blood test is:
- Males: 38.3 to 48.6%
- Females: 35.5 to 44.9%
The above values indicate the proportion of cells in the blood. For example, 38.3% to 48.6% means 40 ml of cells in 100 ml of blood.
Is 30 PCV normal for pregnant women?
The normal PCV range in pregnant females is 33-38%. This lower than average PCV range in pregnancy is due to high fluid levels in the blood during pregnancy. In some cases, the PCV value of 30% (mild anemia) is also observed.
Why is PCV lower in females?
The human blood comprises cells and plasma. In adolescent females, the level of mean hemoglobin concentration/blood cells is lower as compared to males. This is the reason why the value of PCV is lower in females.
What happens if PCV is low?
A low PCV implies that the patient has a low number of red blood cells and is suffering from anemia. The doctor may need further test reports of the patient to know the underlying causes of anemia so that the treatment can be given accordingly.
Is PCV 34 normal?
A normal range of PCV generally depends on the person taking the test. In females, the normal range is 35.5 to 44.9%. In males, 38.3% to 48.6% is the normal PCV range. For pregnant females, the normal PCV is 33-38%. In some cases of pregnancy, the PCV is 30% as well.
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