CBC system

Hematocrit

Hct

The percentage of blood volume made up of red blood cells.

What is it

Hematocrit — in plain English.

Hematocrit measures the proportion of blood by volume that is red blood cells. It correlates closely with hemoglobin.

Why it's measured

What Hct can reveal.

Hematocrit has been used alongside hemoglobin to evaluate red blood cell mass and anemia in research and clinical practice.

Reference range

Where most laboratories draw the standard line.

Standard laboratory reference

Men: 41 – 53 / Women: 36 – 46 %

Reference ranges vary by laboratory. Your individual reference range will appear on your test report and should be interpreted by your physician in the context of your overall health profile.

What results may indicate

Higher vs. lower Hct — at a high level.

Elevated

Has been associated with dehydration and polycythemia in research literature.

Lower

Has been associated with anemia in research literature.

These associations are general. They are not a personal diagnosis or prediction. Discuss your individual results with your physician in the context of your full health profile.

When it's measured

When Hct is typically run.

Part of standard CBC.

Related markers

Often measured alongside Hct.

Measured in

Hct is one of 160 biomarkers in the Apex Panel.

A complete look at your heart, hormones, metabolism, inflammation, and longevity systems — drawn at Quest or LabCorp, reviewed by a U.S.-licensed physician.

Explore the Apex Panel
160 biomarkers13 body systemsPhysician-reviewed
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This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Lab results alone are not intended to diagnose, treat, or cure any condition and do not replace the advice of a healthcare provider. OPTML does not offer medical advice, a diagnosis, medical treatment, or any form of medical opinion.