- Patient/Guest
- Phlebotomist
- Updates
| Packed Cell Volume Test |
|---|
| Measures hematocrit to diagnose anemia or polycythemia, causing fatigue or dizziness | ||
 |
Synonym | Hematocrit Test |
 |
Test Code | CHEM250066 |
 |
Test Type | Hematology |
 |
Pre-Test Condition | No special |
 |
Report Availability | 1–2 D(s) |
 |
# Test(s) | 1 |
| Test details | Sample Report |
|---|---|
| Packed Cell Volume Test |
|
| Synonym | Hematocrit Test | |
| Test Code | CHEM250066 | |
 | Test Category | ||
| Pre-Test Condition | No special | |
 | Medical History | Share & see Updates | |
| Report Availability | 1–2 D(s) | |
 | Specimen/Sample | Refer Updates | |
 | Stability @21-26 deg. C | 24 H(s) | |
 | Stability @ 2-8 deg. C | 48 H(s) | |
 | Stability @ Frozen | Not frozen | |
| # Test(s) | 1 | |
 | Processing Method | Hematology | |
|
Overview: Packed Cell Volume Test
Introduction: The Packed Cell Volume Test measures hematocrit to diagnose anemia or polycythemia, causing fatigue or dizziness. Following 2023 ASH guidelines, it uses hematological methods for high specificity, supporting blood disorder screening. This test is critical for guiding diagnosis, treatment planning, and improving outcomes in hematology for patients with suspected anemia or polycythemia. Other Names: Hematocrit Assay, PCV Blood Test. FDA Status: Laboratory-developed test (LDT), meeting hematology standards for diagnostic accuracy. Historical Milestone: Hematocrit testing began in the 1920s with centrifugation techniques. Methods improved in the 2000s, enhancing diagnostic precision. Purpose: Measures hematocrit to diagnose anemia or polycythemia, guides treatment, and evaluates patients with fatigue or dizziness. Test Parameters: 1. Hematocrit Level Pretest Condition: No fasting required. Collect whole blood. Report history of fatigue, dizziness, or blood disorder symptoms. Specimen: Whole Blood (EDTA, 2-5 mL). Transport in a biohazard container. Sample Stability at Room Temperature: 24 hours Sample Stability at Refrigeration: 48 hours Sample Stability at Frozen: Not frozen Medical History: Document fatigue, dizziness, pallor, or history of anemia/polycythemia. Include current medications, especially iron supplements or erythropoietin. Consent: Written consent required, detailing the tests purpose, anemia/polycythemia implications, and risks of sample collection. Procedural Considerations: Uses centrifugation to measure hematocrit levels. Results are available in 1-2 days, supporting clinical decisions. Performed in laboratories, often for blood disorder diagnosis. Factors Affecting Result Accuracy: Improper sample storage or hemolysis can affect results. Dehydration may falsely elevate hematocrit. Clinical Significance: Low hematocrit confirms anemia, guiding iron therapy or transfusions. High hematocrit confirms polycythemia, guiding phlebotomy. Specialist Consultation: Consult a hematologist for result interpretation and treatment planning. Additional Supporting Tests: Complete blood count, reticulocyte count, or ferritin levels to confirm anemia or polycythemia diagnosis. Test Limitations: Non-specific for certain blood disorders; clinical correlation is needed. Sample quality affects sensitivity. References: ASH Anemia Guidelines, 2023; Blood, Kaushansky K, 2022. |