Hematocrit

This test is used to determine anemia by calculating indices. Anemia is caused by the shortage of iron in the body. The hematocrit measures the volume of red blood cells, is based on whole blood and therefore dependent on plasma volume.

A hematocrit is a test that is used to determine what portion of the blood is made up of red blood cells. Blood is made up of 4 main constituents: white blood cells which are important for immune function, red blood cells, which carry oxygen around the body, plasma, which carries vital minerals, vitamins and other elements around and lastly platelets which help in the coagulation cascade. The hematocrit, along with hemoglobin blood test, is often used in the diagnosis of anemia, polycythemia and bleeding disorders.

This test is performed in following conditions such as:

• Weakness or fatigue
• Lack of energy
• Fainting
• Pallor
• Shortness of breath
• Dizziness
• Headache
• Enlarged spleen

Also Known As: HCT, PCV (Packed Cell Volume)