RBC (Red Blood Cell Count) Test For Heart and Kidney Diseases

What is RBC Test

The RBC (Red Blood Cell) test measures the number of red blood cells in a person's blood.

• It is typically ordered as part of a complete blood count (CBC) test, which also includes measurements of white blood cells and platelets.
• The RBC count is an important indicator of overall health because red blood cells carry oxygen from the lungs to the body's tissues.
• Abnormal RBC counts can indicate a range of health conditions, including anemia, polycythemia vera, and kidney disease.

 

RBC Test Overview

Here are the basic details for the RBC (Red Blood Cell Count) Test.

Also Known As	Red Blood Cell Count
Type	Blood test
Purpose	Measure the number of red blood cells
Sample Type	Blood
Preparation	None
Fasting	Not required
Gender	All
Age Group	Any
Normal Value	4.35 - 5.65 million cells/mcL (male)
Reporting Time	1 - 2 days
Cost	100 - 300 INR*

*Price range may vary as per location, lab type, and procedure of lab test.

 

RBC Test Full Form

The full form of the RBC Test is Red Blood Cell Count Test.

 

RBC Test Means

RBC Test stands for Red Blood Cell Count Test.

• RBC test measures the number of red blood cells in a blood sample.
• It is a common blood test used to evaluate overall health and diagnose certain medical conditions.
• RBC count provides information about oxygen-carrying capacity and blood cell production.
• Treatment for abnormal RBC counts depends on the underlying cause and may include medications, lifestyle changes, or blood transfusions.
• It is important to follow your healthcare provider's instructions regarding RBC testing, including any necessary preparation and follow-up care.
• RBC testing is generally safe and associated with few risks, such as minor bruising or bleeding at the site of the blood draw.

Interesting Facts About RBC (Red Blood Cell Count)

• The average lifespan of a red blood cell is about 120 days, replaced by new cells in bone marrow.
• RBCs contain hemoglobin for oxygen transport.
• Biconcave shape enhances oxygen absorption and vessel flexibility.

 

RBC Test Purpose

Here are the purposes of the RBC test

• To measure the number of red blood cells in the blood
• To evaluate the body's ability to transport oxygen to the tissues
• To diagnose and monitor various blood disorders, such as anemia, polycythemia vera, and sickle cell disease
• To monitor the effects of certain medications and treatments, such as chemotherapy or radiation therapy
• To assess overall health and screen for underlying health conditions
• To monitor changes in red blood cell count over time and track treatment progress.

 

 

RBC Test Preparation

Here is the basic preparation for the RBC Test.

 

Before RBC Test

• Follow any fasting instructions provided by your doctor.
• Inform your doctor about any medications or supplements you are taking.
• Provide relevant medical history, such as bleeding disorders or recent surgeries.

 

During RBC Test

• Cooperate with the healthcare professional conducting the test.
• Provide a blood sample as requested.

 

After RBC Test

• Resume normal activities.
• Take any prescribed medications as directed.
• Await the test results and discuss them with your doctor.

Summary

Prepare for the RBC Test by following fasting instructions, informing about medications, providing relevant medical history, cooperating during the test, and discussing results with your doctor.

 

Who performs an RBC test?

• An RBC (Red Blood Cell) test is typically performed by a trained healthcare professional, such as a phlebotomist, nurse, or medical laboratory technician.
• The blood sample is collected by inserting a needle into a vein in the arm, and the sample is then sent to a medical laboratory for analysis.
• The results of the RBC test are typically interpreted by a healthcare provider, such as a physician or nurse practitioner, who will use the results to diagnose and monitor various blood disorders or other health conditions.

 

RBC Test Procedure

Here are the basic steps and procedure of the RBC Test.

1. A blood sample is taken from a vein in your arm.
2. The sample is collected in a tube or vial.
3. The sample is sent to a laboratory for analysis.
4. In the laboratory, the RBC count is measured using automated equipment.
5. The results are reported to your healthcare provider.

 

RBC Test Result

RBC levels within the therapeutic range indicate that the medication is being appropriately metabolized and is likely to be effective.

• High levels suggest toxicity, leading to adverse effects.
• Low levels indicate ineffective treatment, requiring dosage adjustment or alternative medications.
• Interpret results alongside clinical symptoms and overall health.
• Regular monitoring ensures proper dosing and prevents toxicity or inadequate treatment.

 

RBC Test Report

RBC Test Report PDF

 

RBC Test Normal Result Report

RBC Normal Test Report

RBC Test Normal Result Report PDF

 

RBC Test Abnormal Result Report

RBC Abnormal Test Report

RBC Test Abnormal Result Report PDF

 

RBC Test Normal Range

Here's the Normal RBC Count or RBC Count Normal Range presented below.

Normal RBC Count	Normal Range
Male	4.35 - 5.65 million cells/mcL
Female	3.92 - 5.13 million cells/mcL

 

RBC Test Interpretation

Here's an example of an RBC Test interpretation.

RBC Count (million cells/mcL)	Interpretation
< 4.5	Low (Anemia)
4.5 - 5.5	Normal
> 5.5	High (Polycythemia)

 

RBC Test High Levels

Here's some potential causes of high RBC levels (RBC toxicity):

High RBC Levels	Causes
Polycythemia	Increased production of red blood cells
Dehydration	Concentration of red blood cells due to fluid loss
Lung diseases	Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
Kidney disease	Increased production of erythropoietin
Certain medications	Steroids, diuretics

 

RBC Test Low Levels

Here's some potential causes of low RBC levels (subtherapeutic levels):

Low RBC Levels	Causes
Anemia	Iron deficiency, chronic diseases
Bleeding	Trauma, ulcers, heavy menstruation
Bone marrow disorders	Leukemia, myelodysplastic syndrome
Nutritional deficiencies	Vitamin B12 or folate deficiency
Kidney disease	Decreased erythropoietin production
Medications	Chemotherapy, certain medications

Summary

High RBC test values indicate potential dehydration or kidney disease, while low values can suggest anemia or bleeding disorders

 

Specimen Requirements For RBC Test

Here are the specimen requirements for the RBC Test.

Specimen	Whole Blood
Volume	2 ml
Container	Lavender-top (EDTA) tube

 

RBC Test is Safe?

RBC Test is safe and widely used in clinical practice.

• It typically involves a routine blood draw, which carries minimal risks.
• Potential complications, such as bruising or infection, are rare but possible.

 

When Do You Get RBC Test Results?

• RBC Test results are usually available within 1-2 days.
• The exact timeframe may vary depending on the laboratory and healthcare provider.

 

RBC Test Limitation

Here are some possible limitations of the RBC Test.

• RBC Test Can be influenced by hydration status.
• RBC Test Cannot provide specific diagnosis or disease identification.
• Other factors may affect RBC count accuracy.

 

RBC Test Risk Factors

Here is the potential risk factor of the RBC Test.

• Certain medications or medical conditions can affect results.
• Factors such as smoking or high altitude can impact RBC count.
• Invasive procedures may pose minimal risks.

 

Doctor Recommendations After RBC Test Result

Here are Doctor recommendations or consult a specialist after the RBC Test.

RBC Test Result	Doctor to Visit	Reason
High	Hematologist	Possible conditions like polycythemia
Normal	General Doctor	Routine checks or normal blood cell counts
Low	Hematologist	Potential conditions like anemia or bleeding disorders

 

RBC Test Price

Here are the estimated RBC Test Price in India with top different cities:

City	Price Range (INR)*
Mumbai	100 - 300
New Delhi	150 - 300
Bangalore	200 - 300
Hyderabad	200 - 300
Kolkata	100 - 300
Pune	150 - 300
Lucknow	100 - 300
Noida	150 - 300
Surat	100 - 300
Gurugram	150 - 300
Patna	100 - 300
Chennai	200 - 300
Jaipur	150 - 300
Ahmedabad	100 - 300

*Prices are approximate and vary depending on a specific laboratory or healthcare facility.

 

Summary

Overall, the RBC test is a routine blood test that can reveal important information about a person's health status and is useful in diagnosing a range of medical conditions. We would recommend visiting the Drlogy Test for detailed information about all medical tests for patients, doctors, scholers and medical students.

 

Reference

• Red blood cell - Wikipedia [1].
• Red Blood Cell Count - Health Encyclopedia - URMC [2].