20 results about "Hematocrit" patented technology

The hematocrit (/hɪˈmætəkrɪt/) (Ht or HCT), also known by several other names, is a blood test that measures the volume percentage (vol%) of red blood cells (RBC) in blood. The measurement depends on the number and size of red bloods cells. It is normally 40.7% to 50.3% for men and 36.1% to 44.3% for women. It is a part of a person's complete blood count results, along with hemoglobin concentration, white blood cell count, and platelet count. Because the purpose of red blood cells is to transfer oxygen from the lungs to body tissues, a blood sample's hematocrit—the red blood cell volume percentage—can become a point of reference of its capability of delivering oxygen. Hematocrit levels that are too high or too low can indicate a blood disorder, dehydration, or other medical conditions. An abnormally low hematocrit may suggest anemia, a decrease in the total amount of red blood cells, while an abnormally high hematocrit is called polycythemia. Both are potentially life-threatening disorders.