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Formed elements of blood
Formed elements of blood


Hematocrit (HCT)

Alternative Names:
HCT

Normal Values:

Hematocrit (varies with altitude):

  • Male: 40.7-50.3%
  • Female: 36.1-44.3%


What abnormal results mean:

Low hematocrit may indicate:

  • anemia (various types)
  • blood loss (hemorrhage)
  • bone marrow failure (e.g., due to radiation, toxin, fibrosis, tumor)
  • destruction of red blood cells
  • leukemia
  • malnutrition or specific nutritional deficiency
  • multiple myeloma
  • rheumatoid arthritis
High hematocrit may indicate:

This test may be performed under many other conditions and in the assessment of many disease states.




Review Date: 2/3/2005
Reviewed By: Rita Nanda, M.D., Department of Hematology/Oncology, University of Chicago Medical Center, Chicago, IL. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. Copyright 2004 A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.

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