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Hematocrit (HCT)
Alternate Names : HCT
Definition
The hematocrit is the percent of whole blood that is comprised of red blood cells. The hematocrit is a measure of both the number of red blood cells and the size of red blood cells.
The hematocrit is almost always ordered as part of a complete blood count, which measures the number of red blood cells, the number of white blood cells, the total amount of hemoglobin in the blood, and the fraction of the blood composed of red blood cells (hematocrit).
Pictures & Images
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Why is the Test Performed?
The hematocrit indicates the proportion of cells and fluids in the blood.
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• Definition
• Why is the Test Performed?
• How is the Test Performed?
• How to Prepare for the Test?
• How will the Test Feel?
• Normal Values
• What do Abnormal Results Mean?
• Special Considerations
• Risks
• Pictures & Images
Topics that might be of interest to you Diseases & Conditions
• Anemia
• Dehydration
• Multiple Myeloma
• Polycythemia Vera
• Rheumatoid Arthritis
Tests & Exams
• CBC
• Hemoglobin
• RBC Count
Other Topics
• Adolescent Test or Procedure Preparation
• Infant Test/Procedure Preparation
• Preschooler Test/Procedure Preparation
• School Age Test/Procedure Preparation
• Toddler Test/Procedure Preparation
Review Date : 6/1/2003
Reviewed By : Marcia S. Brose, M.D., Ph.D., Division of Hematology/Oncology, Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
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