Total Red Cell Count With MCV, MCH, MCHC, RDW

Red blood cells are vital in transferring oxygen from your lungs to multiple cells throughout your body. The process helps your cells to function, multiply and grow. However, if the number of red blood cells is higher or lower than normal, it might indicate an illness.

These illnesses might include blood cell complications like anaemia, kidney problems and malnutrition. Doctors conduct a total red cell count test to prevent any underlying ailments from worsening. This test enables the doctors to understand the number of red blood cells in your body and analyse your overall health. It can also help patients understand any pre-existing kidney disorders.

After diagnosing any blood-related complications, the doctor may prescribe medications or special treatments for you.

Certain symptoms and conditions can indicate blood disorders or low red blood cell count in the body. These include extreme fatigue and weakness, increased heartbeat, and pale or dull skin.

Moreover, the symptoms of high red blood cell count can involve conditions like:

• Fatigue 
• Shortness of breath 
• Joint pain 
• Dizziness 
• Headaches 
• Problems with your eyesight

The total red cell count test determines the red blood cell count along with amounts of Mean Corpuscular Volume (MCV), Mean Corpuscular Haemoglobin (MCH), Mean Corpuscular Haemoglobin Concentration (MCHC) and Red Cell Distribution Width (RDW).

The Mean Corpuscular Volume determines the average red blood cell count in your body. Doctors use the Mean Corpuscular Haemoglobin test to understand the average haemoglobin concentration in the average amount of red blood cells. The Mean Corpuscular haemoglobin Concentration determines the average haemoglobin concentration in red blood cells of a given volume.

This total red cell count test package also measures the Red Cell Distribution Width, which evaluates the differences between the red blood cell count and volume.

Apollo 247’s total red cell count test is essential for a comprehensive analysis of your blood and disorders like leukaemia. Doctors might include the test as a part of your routine check-up to enhance your health.

After completion of the test, the doctor will analyse the results. Based on your health condition, they might recommend you to take other blood tests. If you are healthy but your red blood cell count is slightly above the normal range, the condition might not be serious. In that case, your doctor will recommend you another treatment plan for preventing blood-related disorders. 
 

Medically reviewed by Dr. Srikanth M, Haematologist, Apollo Hospitals Greams Road, Chennai

Frequently asked questions

What is the procedure for the total red cell count test?

During the total red cell count test, the physician or healthcare professional will take a sample of your blood. The professional will collect your blood using a needle and place it in a test tube for examination. After this process, the professional will send the sample to the lab for examination.

What is the normal RBC count?

The normal RBC count is different for men and women. Men have more red blood cells than women, which is 4.7 to 6.1 million cells/mcL. For women, the standard count is 4.2 to 5.4 million cells/mcL. However, the number of red blood cells might decrease with age.

How to prepare for the total red cell count test?

The preparation for this test is quite simple, and you must follow the doctor's instructions. If your blood sample is needed for multiple tests besides this, the doctor might ask you to fast for a certain period. However, you must discuss any pre-existing ailments and medications with your doctor.

What are the primary causes of a high RBC count?

The primary causes of a high number of red blood cells in the body might include: Low oxygen levels in your blood (hypoxia)  Pulmonary fibrosis  Excessive smoking  Sleep apnea  Heart failure and other heart diseases

What risk factors do you need to keep in mind to prevent anaemia?

One of the most common ailments doctors determine after blood count diagnosis is anaemia. Here are the risk factors you must be aware of to prevent the disease:  Family history of anaemia  A diet lacking in iron-rich foods  Menstruation  Pregnancy  Chronic conditions like kidney failure

Are there any risks associated with the total red blood cell test?

No, there aren’t any risks with the total red blood cell test. However, you might feel mild pain when the doctor collects your blood sample. The pain will go away subsequently.