CBC system

Red Blood Cell Count (RBC)

RBC

The total number of red blood cells in your circulation.

What is it

Red Blood Cell Count (RBC) — in plain English.

RBC count measures the number of red blood cells per unit volume of blood. RBCs carry oxygen from lungs to tissues.

Why it's measured

What RBC can reveal.

RBC count has been used in evaluating anemia and red blood cell production in research and clinical practice.

Reference range

Where most laboratories draw the standard line.

Standard laboratory reference

Men: 4.5 – 5.9 / Women: 4.0 – 5.2 million/μL

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 RBC — at a high level.

Elevated

Has been associated with polycythemia and certain conditions 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 RBC is typically run.

Part of standard complete blood count.

Related markers

Often measured alongside RBC.

Measured in

RBC 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.