Hematocrit represents the ratio of RBC volume to total blood volume.

It is a key component of the Complete Blood Count (CBC).

Clinical uses include:

Diagnosing anemia (low HCT).

Detecting polycythemia (high HCT).

Assessing hydration status (low in overhydration, high in dehydration).

Monitoring patients with chronic diseases, bleeding disorders, or bone marrow conditions.

Often interpreted alongside Hemoglobin, RBC count, and other CBC parameters.

Analyte: Hematocrit percentage (%).

Normal Range (varies by lab):

Men: ~40–54%

Women: ~36–48%

Children: ~32–44%

Newborns: ~44–64%

Abnormal Findings:

Low HCT: Suggests anemia, blood loss, nutritional deficiency, or chronic illness.

High HCT: Indicates polycythemia, dehydration, or chronic hypoxia (e.g., lung disease, high altitude).

Clinical Use:

Provides a direct measure of red cell volume.

Helps guide diagnosis and treatment of blood disorders.

Supports monitoring of hydration and oxygen‑carrying capacity.