Skip to content

We are currently in beta

Please enjoy the existing content while we continue to fix and enhance your experience.

We would love to receive any feedback or comments that you'd like to share.

You can contact us here

Journeys of Life StoryMD Health Communities

Why StoryMD
Our Story
Point of Care
Newsletter
Contact Us
Help Center

Privacy Policy
Terms of Service
Accessibility

Find us on facebook
Find us on instagram
Find us on linkedin
Find us on pinterest
Find us on twitter
Find us on youtube

© 2024 StoryMD Inc. All rights reserved.

Anemia of Inflammation

Table of Contents

Anemia of Inflammation

Anemia of Chronic Disease; ACD

Anemia of inflammation, also called anemia of chronic disease or ACD, is a type of anemia that affects people who have conditions that cause inflammation, such as infections, autoimmune diseases, cancer, and chronic kidney disease (CKD). Learn about the symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options for this condition.

Iron Deficient Red Blood Cells

Image by TheVisualMD

Anemia of Inflammation

Iron Deficient Red Blood Cells

Image by TheVisualMD

Iron Deficient Red Blood Cells

Anemia occurs when there are too few red blood cells in the bloodstream to deliver adequate oxygen to body tissues. There are different types and causes of anemia, but iron deficiency is the most common. Different tests can determine the amount of iron in the blood, the capacity of the blood to transport iron, and the amount of iron in storage. Iron is transported throughout the body with the help of proteins. The total iron binding capacity test (TIBC) measures the blood's ability to bind and transport iron

Image by TheVisualMD

What Is Anemia of Inflammation?

Anemia of inflammation, also called anemia of chronic disease or ACD, is a type of anemia that affects people who have conditions that cause inflammation, such as infections, autoimmune diseases, cancer, and chronic kidney disease (CKD).

Anemia is a condition in which your blood has fewer red blood cells than normal. Your red blood cells may also have less hemoglobin than normal. Hemoglobin is the iron-rich protein that allows red blood cells to carry oxygen from your lungs to the rest of your body. Your body needs oxygen to work properly. With fewer red blood cells or less hemoglobin, your body may not get enough oxygen.

In anemia of inflammation, you may have a normal or sometimes increased amount of iron stored in your body tissues, but a low level of iron in your blood. Inflammation may prevent your body from using stored iron to make enough healthy red blood cells, leading to anemia.

Anemia is a condition in which your blood has fewer red blood cells or less hemoglobin than normal.

Why is anemia of inflammation also called anemia of chronic disease?

Anemia of inflammation is also called anemia of chronic disease because this type of anemia commonly occurs in people who have chronic conditions that may be associated with inflammation.

How common is anemia of inflammation?

Anemia of inflammation is the second most common type of anemia, after iron-deficiency anemia.

Source: National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK)

Additional Materials (5)

Iron Deficiency Anemia (IDA) VS Anemia of chronic disease (ACD)

Video by Medicosis Perfectionalis/YouTube

Anemia of chronic disease | Hematologic System Diseases | NCLEX-RN | Khan Academy

Video by khanacademymedicine/YouTube

Iron deficiency and anemia of chronic disease treatment | NCLEX-RN | Khan Academy

Video by khanacademymedicine/YouTube

The Role of Red Blood Cells in Anemia

Video by American Society of Hematology/YouTube

Anemia of Chronic Disease, All you need to know!

Video by Medicosis Perfectionalis/YouTube

4:37

Iron Deficiency Anemia (IDA) VS Anemia of chronic disease (ACD)

Medicosis Perfectionalis/YouTube

6:19

Anemia of chronic disease | Hematologic System Diseases | NCLEX-RN | Khan Academy

khanacademymedicine/YouTube

6:13

Iron deficiency and anemia of chronic disease treatment | NCLEX-RN | Khan Academy

khanacademymedicine/YouTube

1:04

The Role of Red Blood Cells in Anemia

American Society of Hematology/YouTube

11:33

Anemia of Chronic Disease, All you need to know!

Medicosis Perfectionalis/YouTube

Other Types of Anemia

Aplastic Anemia-Bone Marrow

Image by doctorssupport.org

Aplastic Anemia-Bone Marrow

Image by doctorssupport.org

Are There Other Types of Anemia?

There are many types of anemia. Common types include

iron-deficiency anemia, a condition in which the body’s stored iron is used up, causing the body to make fewer healthy red blood cells. In people with iron-deficiency anemia, iron levels are low in both body tissues and the blood. This is the most common type of anemia.
pernicious anemia, which is caused by a lack of vitamin B12.
aplastic anemia, a condition in which the bone marrow doesn’t make enough new red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets because the bone marrow’s stem cells are damaged.
hemolytic anemia, a condition in which red blood cells are destroyed earlier than normal.

Source: National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK)

Risk Factors

Cardiovascular System of Male Chest and Colon

Image by TheVisualMD

Cardiovascular System of Male Chest and Colon

Image showing the cardiovascular system of the male upper body and abdomen. Shown are the heart and intestines and their arterial blood supply. The aorta, the largest artery in the body, arises from the left ventricle of the heart and descends through the chest. Arteries that branch off of the aorta supply blood to the major organs of the chest and abdomen, as well as the head and neck, legs, and arms.

Image by TheVisualMD

Who Is More Likely to Have Anemia of Inflammation?

While anemia of inflammation can affect people of any age, older adults are more likely to have this type of anemia because they are more likely to have chronic diseases that cause inflammation. In the United States, about 1 million people older than age 65 have anemia of inflammation.

Source: National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK)

Causes

Innate Immune Response

Image by CNX Openstax

Innate Immune Response

Cells of the blood include (1) monocytes, (2) lymphocytes, (3) neutrophils, (4) red blood cells, and (5) platelets. Note the very similar morphologies of the leukocytes (1, 2, 3). (credit: modification of work by Bruce Wetzel, Harry Schaefer, NCI; scale-bar data from Matt Russell)

Image by CNX Openstax

What Causes Anemia of Inflammation?

Experts think that when you have an infection or disease that causes inflammation, your immune system causes changes in how your body works that may lead to anemia of inflammation.

Your body may not store and use iron normally.
Your kidneys may produce less erythropoietin (EPO), a hormone that signals your bone marrow—the spongy tissue inside most of your bones—to make red blood cells.
Your bone marrow may not respond normally to EPO, making fewer red blood cells than needed.
Your red blood cells may live for a shorter time than normal, causing them to die faster than they can be replaced.

Source: National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK)

Additional Materials (1)

Why Chronic Inflammation Causes Anemia (Iron Deficiency) – Anemia of Chronic Disease – Dr.Berg

Video by Dr. Eric Berg DC/YouTube

4:16

Why Chronic Inflammation Causes Anemia (Iron Deficiency) – Anemia of Chronic Disease – Dr.Berg

Dr. Eric Berg DC/YouTube

Chronic Conditions

Anemia and fatigue

Image by TheVisualMD

Anemia and fatigue

Your blood vessels are the body's superhighway. Blood races through more than 50,000 miles of vessels, delivering nutrients to cells and hauling waste products away from them. One of the blood's most vital passengers is oxygen. Oxygen binds to hemoglobin, a protein in red blood cells, and is carried to cells throughout the body. Anemia occurs when hemoglobin does not carry enough oxygen to cells. There are several possible causes. Sometimes the body has too little iron, which is essential to the formation of hemoglobin. Deficiencies of vitamin B-12 or folic acid can also cause anemia. Sometimes there are not enough red blood cells, which can result from ulcers or other undetected sources of blood loss. And sometimes the body simply demands more iron for growth: Pregnant women and growing toddlers are at increased risk of anemia. People who are anemic can have headaches, dizziness, difficulty breathing, fatigue and they may feel cold. Anyone who has such symptoms can find out, through a simple blood test, whether some form of anemia is to blame. To keep that superhighway moving, we have to make sure that the blood is doing its job.

Image by TheVisualMD

Chronic Conditions That Cause Anemia of Inflammation

Many different chronic conditions can cause inflammation that leads to anemia, including

autoimmune diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis or lupus
cancer
chronic infections, such as HIV/AIDS and tuberculosis
CKD
inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), such as Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis
other chronic diseases that involve inflammation, such as diabetes and heart failure

In people with certain chronic conditions, anemia may have more than one cause. For example

Causes of anemia in CKD may include inflammation, low levels of EPO due to kidney damage, or low levels of the nutrients needed to make red blood cells. Hemodialysis to treat CKD may also lead to iron-deficiency anemia.
People with IBD may have both iron-deficiency anemia due to blood loss and anemia of inflammation.
In people who have cancer, anemia may be caused by inflammation, blood loss, and cancers that affect or spread to the bone marrow. Cancer treatments such as chemotherapy and radiation therapy may also cause or worsen anemia.

Source: National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK)

Additional Materials (4)

Diagnosing Anemia

Your blood vessels are the body's superhighway. Blood races through more than 50,000 miles of vessels, delivering nutrients to cells and hauling waste products away from them. One of the blood's most vital passengers is oxygen. Oxygen binds to hemoglobin, a protein in red blood cells, and is carried to cells throughout the body. Anemia occurs when hemoglobin does not carry enough oxygen to cells. There are several possible causes. Sometimes the body has too little iron, which is essential to the formation of hemoglobin. Deficiencies of vitamin B-12 or folic acid can also cause anemia. Sometimes there are not enough red blood cells, which can result from ulcers or other undetected sources of blood loss. And sometimes the body simply demands more iron for growth: Pregnant women and growing toddlers are at increased risk of anemia. People who are anemic can have headaches, dizziness, difficulty breathing, fatigue and they may feel cold. Anyone who has such symptoms can find out, through a simple blood test, whether some form of anemia is to blame. To keep that superhighway moving, we have to make sure that the blood is doing its job.

Image by TheVisualMD

Fatigue and Sickle Cell Anemia

Fatigue and Sickle Cell Anemia

Image by TheVisualMD

Understanding Anemia

This video clip explains what anemia is. The video starts off with revealing erythropoietin, a hormone that controls the production of red blood cells. This process is known as erythropoiesis. Erythropoietin is produced in the kidneys and promotes red blood cell formation in the bone marrow. As shown in the video, when the level of healthy red blood cells (RBCs) in the body becomes too low, anemia occurs. Anemia is one of the most common blood disorders that can cause a variety of complications, including fatigue and stress on bodily organs.

Image by TheVisualMD

Rheumatoid Arthritis

Inflammation of synovial membrane of the finger joint in case of rheumatoid arthritis.

Image by Scientific Animations, Inc.

Diagnosing Anemia

TheVisualMD

Fatigue and Sickle Cell Anemia

TheVisualMD

Understanding Anemia

TheVisualMD

Rheumatoid Arthritis

Scientific Animations, Inc.

Other Causes of Inflammation

Oximeter in a hospital room

Image by Engin Akyurt

Oximeter in a hospital room

Oximeter in a hospital room

Image by Engin Akyurt

Other Causes of Inflammation That May Lead to Anemia

While anemia of inflammation typically develops slowly, anemia of critical illness is a type of anemia of inflammation that develops quickly in patients who are hospitalized for severe acute infections, trauma, or other conditions that cause inflammation.

In some cases, older adults develop anemia of inflammation that is not related to an underlying infection or chronic disease. Experts think that the aging process may cause inflammation and anemia.

Source: National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK)

Symptoms

Depiction of a woman suffering from anemia

Image by https://www.myupchar.com

Depiction of a woman suffering from anemia

This is a depiction of a woman suffering from anemia. Normal red blood cells have been shown in comparison with anemic red blood cells, which are smaller and more pale. Fatigue and light-headedness, the typical symptoms of anemia have been shown.

Image by https://www.myupchar.com

What Are the Symptoms of Anemia of Inflammation?

Anemia of inflammation typically develops slowly and may cause few or no symptoms. In fact, you may only experience symptoms of the disease that is causing anemia and not notice additional symptoms.

Symptoms of anemia of inflammation are the same as in any type of anemia and include

a fast heartbeat
body aches
fainting or feeling dizzy or light-headed
feeling tired or weak
getting tired easily during or after physical activity
pale skin
shortness of breath

Source: National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK)

Additional Materials (3)

Anemia of chronic disease | Hematologic System Diseases | NCLEX-RN | Khan Academy

Video by khanacademymedicine/YouTube

Anemia - Causes, Symptoms, Treatments & More…

Video by Rehealthify/YouTube

What is #Anemia? The Symptoms of Iron Deficiency

Video by LetsGetChecked/YouTube

6:19

Anemia of chronic disease | Hematologic System Diseases | NCLEX-RN | Khan Academy

khanacademymedicine/YouTube

2:06

Anemia - Causes, Symptoms, Treatments & More…

Rehealthify/YouTube

5:42

What is #Anemia? The Symptoms of Iron Deficiency

LetsGetChecked/YouTube

Diagnosis

Anemia and fatigue

Image by TheVisualMD

Anemia and fatigue

Your blood vessels are the body's superhighway. Blood races through more than 50,000 miles of vessels, delivering nutrients to cells and hauling waste products away from them. One of the blood's most vital passengers is oxygen. Oxygen binds to hemoglobin, a protein in red blood cells, and is carried to cells throughout the body. Anemia occurs when hemoglobin does not carry enough oxygen to cells. There are several possible causes. Sometimes the body has too little iron, which is essential to the formation of hemoglobin. Deficiencies of vitamin B-12 or folic acid can also cause anemia. Sometimes there are not enough red blood cells, which can result from ulcers or other undetected sources of blood loss. And sometimes the body simply demands more iron for growth: Pregnant women and growing toddlers are at increased risk of anemia. People who are anemic can have headaches, dizziness, difficulty breathing, fatigue and they may feel cold. Anyone who has such symptoms can find out, through a simple blood test, whether some form of anemia is to blame. To keep that superhighway moving, we have to make sure that the blood is doing its job.

Image by TheVisualMD

How Do Health Care Professionals Diagnose Anemia of Inflammation?

Health care professionals use a medical history and blood tests to diagnose anemia of inflammation.

Medical history

A health care professional will ask about your history of infections or chronic diseases that may lead to anemia of inflammation.

Blood tests

Health care professionals use blood tests to check for signs of anemia of inflammation, other types of anemia, or other health problems. A health care professional will take a blood sample from you and send the sample to a lab to test.

Blood count tests can check many parts and features of your blood, including

the number of red blood cells
the average size of red blood cells
the amount of hemoglobin in your blood and in your red blood cells
the number of developing red blood cells, called reticulocytes, in your blood

Some of these blood count tests and others may be combined in a test called a complete blood count. A blood smear may be used to examine the size, shape, and number of red blood cells in your blood.

A health care professional may also use blood tests to check the amount of iron in your blood and stored in your body. These tests may measure

iron in your blood
transferrin, a protein in your blood that carries iron
ferritin, the protein that stores iron in your body’s cells

A health care professional may diagnose anemia of inflammation if blood test results suggest that you have anemia, a low level of iron in your blood, and a normal level of iron stored in your body tissues.

If blood test results suggest you have anemia of inflammation but the cause is unknown, a health care professional may perform additional tests to look for the cause.

For a blood test, a health care professional will take a blood sample from you and send the sample to a lab.

Source: National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK)

Red Blood Cell (RBC) Count

Red Blood Cell (RBC) Count

Also called: Erythrocyte Count, RBC Count, Red Blood Count, Red Blood Cell Count, Red Count

A red blood cell (RBC) count is a blood test that measures the number of red blood cells in your blood. Red blood cells carry oxygen from your lungs to the rest of your body. An abnormal RBC count can be a sign of a serious health problem.

Red Blood Cell (RBC) Count

Also called: Erythrocyte Count, RBC Count, Red Blood Count, Red Blood Cell Count, Red Count

A red blood cell (RBC) count is a blood test that measures the number of red blood cells in your blood. Red blood cells carry oxygen from your lungs to the rest of your body. An abnormal RBC count can be a sign of a serious health problem.

{"label":"RBC count reference range","scale":"lin","step":0.1,"hideunits":false,"items":[{"flag":"abnormal","label":{"short":"Low","long":"Low","orientation":"horizontal"},"values":{"min":0,"max":3.9},"text":"If your RBC count, hemoglobin, and hematocrit levels are low, you have anemia (a condition where the blood is unable to transport enough oxygen to the tissues and organs). ","conditions":["Anemia","Leukemia","Malnutrition","Multiple myeloma","Kidney failure","Pregnancy"]},{"flag":"normal","label":{"short":"Normal","long":"Normal","orientation":"horizontal"},"values":{"min":3.9,"max":5.5},"text":"Red blood cells (RBC) are made in the bone marrow and contain hemoglobin, a protein that carries oxygen to the tissues in the body. RBCs make up approximately 44% of the total blood volume.","conditions":[]},{"flag":"abnormal","label":{"short":"High","long":"High","orientation":"horizontal"},"values":{"min":5.5,"max":20},"text":"If your RBC count, hemoglobin, and hematocrit levels are high, you have polycythemia (a condition that causes a decreased blood flow). RBC count normally increases for several weeks when in a higher altitude.","conditions":["Dehydration","Heart disease","Polycythemia vera","Scarring of the lungs","Lung disease","Kidney cancer"]}],"units":[{"printSymbol":"(10<sup>6<\/sup>)\/\u03bcL","code":"10*6\/uL","name":"million per microliter"}],"value":4.7,"disclaimer":"Normal reference ranges can vary depending on the laboratory and the method used for testing. You must use the range supplied by the laboratory that performed your test to evaluate whether your results are \"within normal limits.\""}[{"abnormal":0},{"normal":0},{"abnormal":0}]
Use the slider below to see how your results affect your health.
(10<sup>6</sup>)/μL
3.9
5.5
Your result is Normal.
Red blood cells (RBC) are made in the bone marrow and contain hemoglobin, a protein that carries oxygen to the tissues in the body. RBCs make up approximately 44% of the total blood volume.
Related conditions
You may get this test as part of a complete blood count, which is often included in a routine checkup. You may also need this test if you have symptoms of a low or high red blood cell count.
Symptoms of a low red blood cell count include:
- Weakness
- Fatigue
- Pale skin
- Rapid heartbeat
Symptoms of a high red blood cell count include:
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Vision problems
Your results will show whether you have a normal red blood cell count or a count that is too low or too high.
A low red blood cell count can be a sign of:
- Anemia
- Leukemia, a type of blood cancer
- Malnutrition, a condition in which your body does not get the calories, vitamins, and/or minerals needed for good health
- Multiple myeloma, a cancer of the bone marrow
- Kidney failure
It may also be a sign of pregnancy.
A high red blood cell count can be a sign of:
- Dehydration
- Heart disease
- Polycythemia vera, a bone marrow disease that causes too many red blood cells to be made
- Scarring of the lungs, often due to cigarette smoking
- Lung disease
- Kidney cancer
If you have questions about your results, talk to your health care provider.
If results showed you had a low or a high red blood cell count, you may need more tests to help make a diagnosis. These include:
- Reticulocyte count, a test that counts the number of reticulocytes in the blood. Reticulocytes are red blood cells that are still developing. These are also known as immature red blood cells.
- Iron tests, which measure iron levels in the blood. Iron is essential for making red blood cells.
- Vitamin B test, which measures the amount of one or more B vitamins in the blood. B vitamins are important for making red blood cells.
1. Red Blood Cell (RBC) Count: MedlinePlus Medical Test [accessed on Jan 20, 2024]
2. RBC count: MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia [accessed on Jan 20, 2024]
3. Red Blood Cell Count (RBC) Test - Testing.com. Sep 27, 2022 [accessed on Jan 20, 2024]

Normal reference ranges can vary depending on the laboratory and the method used for testing. You must use the range supplied by the laboratory that performed your test to evaluate whether your results are "within normal limits."

Additional Materials (19)

Red blood cells

Red blood cells

Image by John Kalekos of Massachusetts image distribution for Science and Learning

Red Blood Cell

This image shows two red blood cells. The red blood cell is also called an erythrocyte: erythro is Greek for \"red,\" cyte is Latin for \"cell.\" The disc-shaped RBCs have the critical job of transporting oxygen from the lungs to the body's cells and bringing carbon dioxide from the cells back to the lungs to be expelled.

Image by TheVisualMD

Red Blood Cell in Capillary

The cardiovascular system is vast network of arteries, veins and vessels that would extend 60,000 miles if stretched end-to-end. All but a tiny fraction of this vessel network is invisible to the naked eye. The smallest capillaries (from latin "hairlike") are so narrow that red blood cells must pass through in single file. Higher than normal blood iron levels have been linked to heart disease and the reason is believed to be the oxidative stress the excess iron places on the walls of the blood vessels. It is the biological counterpart of rust. There are 20-30 trillion red blood cells (RBCs) in an adult's body. The life span of RBCs, which are produced in bone marrow, is about 100 days, which means that 2 million die (and are replaced) each second, but in that short lifetime they can make 75,000 round trips between lungs, heart and tissues in the body.

Image by TheVisualMD

Blood Smear Showing Reduced Red Blood Cell Count

Individual blood cells were first detected and described in the 17th century. Later, red blood cells (RBCs) were counted manually from a blood smear, a thin film of blood prepared on a glass slide and examined under a microscope (blood analysis is now automated, though smears are still used to detect visible abnormalities and to check or confirm the results of other tests). Anemia results when there are too few RBCs in circulation because they are being destroyed too quickly or produced too slowly. Anemia can be temporary or long term and range from mild to severe. Folate (also known as vitamin B9) is necessary for red blood cell production and the prevention of anemia, as well as the metabolism of carbohydrates. But folate also plays key roles in the synthesis and maintenance of DNA and is especially important in cell division and growth in fetal development (deficiencies of the vitamin in pregnancy is a common cause of birth defects). Pernicious anemia is a disorder in which the body's loses its ability to utilize folate and vitamin B12.

Image by TheVisualMD

Red Blood Cell (RBC)

There are 20-30 trillion red blood cells (RBCs) in an adult's body. The life span of RBCs, which are produced in bone marrow, is about 100 days, which means that 2 million die (and are replaced) each second. In their short lifetimes, however, red blood cells can make 75,000 round trips between lungs, heart and tissues in the body.

Image by TheVisualMD

Red Blood Cell

The RBC is disc-shaped and concave on both sides. The concave shape increases the cells' surface area, which allows them to distribute more oxygen to the body's cells. The shape also enables the cells to bunch together more compactly, helping them travel through the bloodstream more efficiently. Some RBCs are a bit thicker or thinner, wider or longer than others, but can change their shape to suit the demands of their environment. The cell membranes of the RBCs are protein meshes that give them flexibility, allowing them to navigate the twists and turns of the blood vessel network. The nearly 300 million hemoglobin molecules contained within each RBC easily move and slide past each other within the cell, adjusting their positions to conform to the RBC's shifting shape. Diameter : 7 μm

Image by TheVisualMD

Capillary Revealing Red Blood Cell

A portion of a capillary wall has been cut away to reveal the red blood cells flowing within.

Image by TheVisualMD

Red Blood Cell and White Blood Cell

Medical visualization of red blood cells and leukocytes.

Image by TheVisualMD

Blood Smear Showing Normal Red Blood Cell Count

Individual blood cells were first detected and described in the 17th century. Later, red blood cells were counted manually from a blood smear, a thin film of blood prepared on a glass slide and examined under a microscope. Blood analysis is now automated, though blood smears are still used to detect visible abnormalities and to check or confirm the results of other tests. There are normally between 4.2-5.8 million red blood cells per microliter (about a drop), which means there are 20-30 trillion red blood cells circulating through the body of an adult.

Image by TheVisualMD

Tubule of Nephron Revealing Many Red Blood Cell

This image shows the cut distal convoluted tubule of nephron with surrounding capillaries cut to reveal many red blood cells and healthy amounts of Erythopoeitin, EPO, (yellow particles). Erythropoeitin, EPO, is produced by the endothelial cells of the capillaries and the fibroblasts in the interstitial tissue surrounding the distal tubules. Normally, the kidneys produce EPO in response to low oxygen levels in order to stimulate red blood cell production in the bone marrow. A normal amount of red blood cells allows for the delivery of an adequate supply of oxygen.

Image by TheVisualMD

Red Blood Cell in Capillary

This image shows red blood cells traveling through capillaries, the smallest blood vessels in the body.

Image by TheVisualMD

Tubule of Nephron Revealing Few Red Blood Cell

Our kidneys are remarkable filters. Each day, they filter about 200 quarts of blood to extract about 2 quarts of wastes, which is then eliminated as urine. The kidneys' delicate filtration units are called nephrons; each kidney has about a million nephrons, and within each nephron are dense forests of tiny capillaries called glomeruli, which remove waste products from the blood while preventing the loss of other components, including proteins, electrolytes and blood cells. The glomerular filtration rate is the amount of blood that is filtered by the glomeruli per minute.

Image by TheVisualMD

This browser does not support the video element.

Complete Blood Count, and Baselining Your Health

Video Topics : Our lifeblood consists of many components and a complete blood count (CBC) includes measurements of the fundamental elements. The largest categories are red and white blood cells (RBCs and WBCs) and cell fragments called platelets, which play roles in blood clotting. There are 20-30 trillion red blood cells in the body of an adult, each with a lifespan of about 100 days (RBCs contain an iron-containing protein called hemoglobin that enables them to carry oxygen to tissues throughout the body and then return carbon dioxide to the lungs). WBCs are in the front lines in the body's ongoing fight against harmful viruses, bacteria and even fungus; when a pathogen enters the body, WBCs mobilize in a coordinated defense response to eliminate, neutralize or mark the invader for destruction. The liquid portion of blood is called plasma and it carries nutrients, electrolytes, waste products, and hormones.

Video by TheVisualMD

Red Blood Cell (RBC) Indices (Anemia Labs)

Video by Nursing School Explained/YouTube

WellnessFX: Red Blood Cell Indices Part 1 with Bryan Walsh

Video by WellnessFX/YouTube

WellnessFX: Red Blood Cell Indices Part 2 with Bryan Walsh

Video by WellnessFX/YouTube

Red Blood Cells Nursing Considerations, Normal Range, Nursing Care, Lab Values Nursing

Video by NURSINGcom/YouTube

This browser does not support the video element.

Flowing Red Blood Cell (RBC)

Animation of red blood cells flowoing quicly through a blood vessel. The camera is positioned in the lumen of the vessel and the rbc's are flowing towards the viewer. The rbc and and lumen are rendered with muted colors to give it a softer look.

Video by TheVisualMD

This browser does not support the video element.

Red Blood Cell Development

This video explains red blood cell development, following a pluripotent stem cell to red blood cell.

Video by TheVisualMD

Red blood cells

John Kalekos of Massachusetts image distribution for Science and Learning

Red Blood Cell

TheVisualMD

Red Blood Cell in Capillary

TheVisualMD

Blood Smear Showing Reduced Red Blood Cell Count

TheVisualMD

Red Blood Cell (RBC)

TheVisualMD

Red Blood Cell

TheVisualMD

Capillary Revealing Red Blood Cell

TheVisualMD

Red Blood Cell and White Blood Cell

TheVisualMD

Blood Smear Showing Normal Red Blood Cell Count

TheVisualMD

Tubule of Nephron Revealing Many Red Blood Cell

TheVisualMD

Red Blood Cell in Capillary

TheVisualMD

Tubule of Nephron Revealing Few Red Blood Cell

TheVisualMD

2:12

Complete Blood Count, and Baselining Your Health

TheVisualMD

7:45

Red Blood Cell (RBC) Indices (Anemia Labs)

Nursing School Explained/YouTube

33:35

WellnessFX: Red Blood Cell Indices Part 1 with Bryan Walsh

WellnessFX/YouTube

28:05

WellnessFX: Red Blood Cell Indices Part 2 with Bryan Walsh

WellnessFX/YouTube

3:01

Red Blood Cells Nursing Considerations, Normal Range, Nursing Care, Lab Values Nursing

NURSINGcom/YouTube

0:12

Flowing Red Blood Cell (RBC)

TheVisualMD

0:31

Red Blood Cell Development

TheVisualMD

Red Blood Cell (RBC) Indices Test

Red Blood Cell (RBC) Indices Test

Also called: Erythrocyte Indices, Red Blood Cell Indices, RBC Indices

Red blood cell (RBC) indices measure the size, shape, and quality of your red blood cells. RBC indices are part of a complete blood count (CBC) test. Measuring indices can help diagnose different forms of anemia, a condition in which there are too few red blood cells.

Red Blood Cell (RBC) Indices Test

Also called: Erythrocyte Indices, Red Blood Cell Indices, RBC Indices

Red blood cell (RBC) indices measure the size, shape, and quality of your red blood cells. RBC indices are part of a complete blood count (CBC) test. Measuring indices can help diagnose different forms of anemia, a condition in which there are too few red blood cells.

Red blood cell (RBC) indices measure the size, shape, and quality of your red blood cells. Red blood cells, also known as erythrocytes, carry oxygen from your lungs to every cell in your body. Your cells need oxygen to grow, reproduce, and stay healthy. There are four types of red blood cell indices:
- Mean corpuscular volume (MCV), which measures the average size of your red blood cells
- Mean corpuscular hemoglobin (MCH), which measures the average amount of hemoglobin in a single red blood cell. Hemoglobin is a protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen.
- Mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration (MCHC), which also measures hemoglobin in red blood cells. In addition, it includes a calculation of the size and volume of your red blood cells.
- Red cell distribution width (RDW), which measures differences in the volume and size of your red blood cells.
If one or more of these indices are not normal, it may mean you have some type of anemia, a condition in which your body does not make enough healthy red blood cells.
Other names: erythrocyte indices
You may get this test as part of a complete blood count, which is often included in a routine checkup. You may also need this test if you have symptoms of anemia, which include:
- Weakness
- Fatigue
- Pale skin
- Rapid heartbeat
- Cold hands and feet
- Shortness of breath
You will get results for each of the indices. Abnormal results may include one or more of the following:
Mean corpuscular volume (MCV)
If your red blood cells are smaller than normal, it may mean you have:
- Iron deficiency anemia, the most common form of anemia. It happens when you don't have enough iron in your body.
- Thalassemia, an inherited disease that can cause severe anemia
If your red blood cells are larger than normal, it may mean you have:
- Anemia caused by a vitamin B deficiency
- Liver disease
Mean corpuscular hemoglobin (MCH)
If the amount of hemoglobin is lower than normal, it may mean you have:
- Iron deficiency anemia
If the amount of hemoglobin is higher than normal, it may mean you have:
- High level of cholesterol in the blood
- Anemia caused by a vitamin B deficiency
Mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration (MCHC)
If the average amount of hemoglobin is lower than normal, it may mean you have:
- Iron deficiency anemia
- Thalassemia
If the average amount of hemoglobin is higher than normal, it may mean you have:
- Hemolytic anemia, a type of anemia that happens when red blood cells are broken up in the blood stream
- Hereditary spherocytosis, a rare genetic disorder that causes anemia and gallstones
Red cell distribution width (RDW)
If your results were normal, it means your red blood cells are normal in size and are all about the same size. If your results were not normal, it means there are differences in the size of your red blood cells. This measurement is not enough to make a diagnosis, so RDW results are usually combined with the results of other indices and other blood tests. The combination of results can help confirm a diagnosis.
If you have questions about your results, talk to your health care provider.
1. Red Blood Cell (RBC) Indices: MedlinePlus Medical Test [accessed on Jan 22, 2024]
2. RBC indices: MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia [accessed on Jan 22, 2024]

MCV

MCV (Mean Corpuscular Volume) Test

Also called: MCV, MCV Blood Test, Mean Corpuscular Volume, Mean RBC Volume

A mean corpuscular volume (MCV) blood test measures the size of your red blood cells. If blood cells are too small or too large, it may indicate a blood disorder.

MCV (Mean Corpuscular Volume) Test

Also called: MCV, MCV Blood Test, Mean Corpuscular Volume, Mean RBC Volume

A mean corpuscular volume (MCV) blood test measures the size of your red blood cells. If blood cells are too small or too large, it may indicate a blood disorder.

{"label":"MCV reference range","scale":"lin","step":0.1,"hideunits":false,"items":[{"flag":"abnormal","label":{"short":"Low","long":"Low","orientation":"horizontal"},"values":{"min":0,"max":76},"text":"A low MCV indicates that the red blood cells are smaller than normal, or microcytic.","conditions":["Microcytic anemia","Iron-deficiency\u00a0anemia\u00a0or other types of anemia","Thalassemia"]},{"flag":"normal","label":{"short":"Normal","long":"Normal","orientation":"horizontal"},"values":{"min":76,"max":96},"text":"A normal MCV indicates that the red blood cells are normal average size, or normocytic. Normal results vary based on the laboratory and the method used.","conditions":[]},{"flag":"abnormal","label":{"short":"High","long":"High","orientation":"horizontal"},"values":{"min":96,"max":200},"text":"A high MCV indicates that the red blood cells are larger than normal, or macrocytic.","conditions":["Macrocytic anemia","Vitamin B12 deficiency","Folic acid deficiency","Liver disease","Hypothyroidism"]}],"units":[{"printSymbol":"fL","code":"fL","name":"femtoliter"}],"value":86,"disclaimer":"Normal reference ranges can vary depending on the laboratory and the method used for testing. You must use the range supplied by the laboratory that performed your test to evaluate whether your results are \"within normal limits.\""}[{"abnormal":0},{"normal":0},{"abnormal":0}]
Use the slider below to see how your results affect your health.
fL
76
96
Your result is Normal.
A normal MCV indicates that the red blood cells are normal average size, or normocytic. Normal results vary based on the laboratory and the method used.
Related conditions
Your health care provider may order a complete blood count, which includes an MCV test, as part of your regular checkup. You may also have the test if you have a chronic (long-lasting) condition that could lead to anemia or if you have the symptoms of anemia:
- Shortness of breath
- Weakness or fatigue
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Arrhythmia (a problem with the rate or rhythm of your heartbeat)
An MCV test alone cannot diagnose any disease. Your provider will use the results of your MCV, other test results, and your medical history to make a diagnosis.
If your results show that your red blood cells are smaller than normal, it may be a sign of:
- Certain types of anemia, including iron-deficiency anemia, the most common type
- Thalassemia, an uncommon genetic condition
If your results show that your red blood cells are larger than normal, it may be a sign of:
- Pernicious anemia, which may be caused by:
  A lack of vitamin B12
  A disease that affects your body's ability to use vitamin B12, such as certain autoimmune diseases, celiac disease, or Crohn's disease.
- Anemia caused by a lack of folic acid
- Liver disease
It's also possible to have anemia with a normal MCV. This may happen if anemia is caused by conditions, such as:
- A sudden loss of blood
- Kidney failure
- Aplastic anemia (uncommon)
If your MCV levels are not in the normal range, it doesn't always mean that you have a medical problem that needs treatment. Diet, activity level, medicines, a menstrual period, and other conditions can affect the test results. Talk with your health care provider to learn what your results mean.
1. MCV (Mean Corpuscular Volume): MedlinePlus Medical Test [accessed on Jan 20, 2024]

Normal reference ranges can vary depending on the laboratory and the method used for testing. You must use the range supplied by the laboratory that performed your test to evaluate whether your results are "within normal limits."

Additional Materials (22)

Microcytic, normocytic, and macrocytic anemias | NCLEX-RN | Khan Academy

Video by khanacademymedicine/YouTube

Non-megaloblastic Macrocytic Anemia

Video by Medicosis Perfectionalis/YouTube

Microcytic anemia | Hematologic System Diseases | NCLEX-RN | Khan Academy

Video by khanacademymedicine/YouTube

Living with and Managing Iron-Deficiency Anemia

Video by NHLBI/YouTube

Hemolytic Anemia

Video by DrER.tv/YouTube

Medical School - Anemia Made Easy

Video by iMedicalSchool/YouTube

Iron deficency anemia diagnosis | Hematologic System Diseases | NCLEX-RN | Khan Academy

Video by khanacademymedicine/YouTube

RBC Indices

Video by Pathology Simplified/YouTube

Anemia: Basic lab tests - hematocrit, hemoglobin, reticulocyte, MCV, morphology

Video by retic20/YouTube

WellnessFX: Red Blood Cell Indices Part 1 with Bryan Walsh

Video by WellnessFX/YouTube

WellnessFX: Red Blood Cell Indices Part 2 with Bryan Walsh

Video by WellnessFX/YouTube

Blood Brain Barrier Endothelium

The blood-brain barrier keeps potentially toxic substances from entering the brain. The semipermeable membrane formed by the tightly spaced cells of capillaries in this area selectively screens out large molecules, while permitting the transport of essential nutrients such as glucose. The endothelium is the cellular lining of the blood vessel and is made up of endothelial cells connected to one another by tight junctions. These are the strongest cell-to-cell adhesions in the body. Toxic materials being transported in the blood are too large to pass through these junctions and exit the blood. Therefore, the brain is protected from exposure to many harmful substances. The barrier is does not, however, prevent fat-soluble materials from entering the brain; this includes alcohol and nicotine.

Image by TheVisualMD

Normal Blood Glucose Levels in Capillary

This image depicts a healthy capillary with normal glucose (pink) and insulin (yellow) levels. Capillaries, the smallest blood vessels in your body, are where nutrients are transferred from blood to cells, and waste from cells to blood. The body's cells depend on sugar in the blood, which is derived from carbohydrates, for food and energy. Allowing for the innumerable differences among individuals, the threshold for a normal blood-sugar (glucose) level in healthy people is 100 mg/dL; that is, 100 milligrams of glucose per deciliter of blood. Lower-than-normal levels characterize hypoglycemia and higher than normal levels characterize hyperglycemia.

Image by TheVisualMD

Cross-Section of Healthy Capillary Blood Vessel with Normal Glucose and Insulin Levels

This image depicts a healthy capillary. Capillaries are the smallest blood vessels in your body and are where the transfer of nutrients from blood to cells and wastes from cells to the blood takes place.The cells of the body depend on sugar in the blood, derived from carbohydrates, for food and energy. Allowing for the innumerable differences among individuals, the threshold for a normal blood-sugar (glucose) level in healthy people is 100 mg/dL; that is, 100 milligrams of glucose per deciliter of blood. Lower-than-normal levels characterize hypoglycemia and higher than normal levels hyperglycemia.

Image by TheVisualMD

Blood Vessels in the Brain

The Blood Brain Barrier and Astrocytes type 1

Image by Ben Brahim Mohammed

Cross-Section of Damaged Capillary Blood Vessel with Very High Glucose and Insulin Levels

This image depicts an unhealthy, damaged capillary with very high levels of insulin and glucose. Capillaries, the smallest blood vessels in your body, are where nutrients are transferred from blood to cells, and waste from cells to the blood The body's cells depend on sugar (glucose) in the blood, which is derived from carbohydrates, for food and energy. Without insulin, glucose is not able to enter cells to be used as fuel. Allowing for the innumerable differences among individuals, the threshold for a normal blood-sugar (glucose) level in healthy people is 100 mg/dL; that is, 100 milligrams of glucose per deciliter of blood. Higher than normal levels lead to hyperglycemia. Hyperglycemia is the hallmark of prediabetes (between 100 and 125 mg/dL) and diabetes (126 mg/dL and higher). It is caused by either too little insulin being released by the pancreas or the body's inability to use insulin properly. Hyperglycemia leads to microangiopathy, marked by endothelial cell apoptosis (programmed cell death), accumulation of AGEs (advanced glycation end products), and thickening of the basement membrane, which can lead to development of lesions, vasoconstriction, and altered vessel function

Blood Components

This image highlights the vital components of blood: 55% plasma Plasma is the liquid river that transports every blood cell to its destination. Oxygen-carrying RBCs couldn't move through arteries, veins and capillaries without it. Even though it is a watery, almost clear fluid, plasma contains many important substances, including blood-clotting agents called platelets and protective proteins called antibodies which help us fight infection. When the clotting agents are removed from blood plasma, it is called serum, which is essential in many life-saving medical situations such as transplant surgery and trauma. <1% white blood cells (wbcs or leukocytes) Some leukocytes are produced in the bone marrow, while others are generated in lymph nodes scattered throughout the body. They are far less numerous than their sister RBCs, but leukocytes are the bedrock of the immune system and are the body's front line of defense. Different types of leukocytes fight infections in different ways. Some target bacterial or fungal infections, while others respond to parasitic threats or allergic reactions. <1% platelets Platelets perform the vital function of clotting blood at wound sites. They are small, even in comparison to the other cells of your blood, but they pack a wallop when it comes to healing a scrape or staunching a more serious wound. When you cut yourself shaving, platelets arrive on the scene like your personal emergency medical team, creating a natural bandage of clotted blood, which eventually forms a scab. 45% red blood cells rbcs or erythrocytes) RBCs are produced in the bone marrow and perform the fundamental task of delivering oxygen to all of the body's cells. The vial is an example of the hematocrit, one of many tests that make up the complete blood count (CBC). Hematocrit measures the volume of RBCs in your blood. A normal hematocrit reading for women is between 36 to 44 percent; for men it's 41 to 50 percent.

Image by TheVisualMD

Test Tube Containing Blood

Visualization of a test tube containing blood. Blood comprises of 55% plasma, 1% platelets and white blood cells, and 45% red blood cells.

Image by TheVisualMD

Blood Smear Showing Reduced Red Blood Cell Count

Individual blood cells were first detected and described in the 17th century. Later, red blood cells (RBCs) were counted manually from a blood smear, a thin film of blood prepared on a glass slide and examined under a microscope (blood analysis is now automated, though smears are still used to detect visible abnormalities and to check or confirm the results of other tests). Anemia results when there are too few RBCs in circulation because they are being destroyed too quickly or produced too slowly. Anemia can be temporary or long term and range from mild to severe. Folate (also known as vitamin B9) is necessary for red blood cell production and the prevention of anemia, as well as the metabolism of carbohydrates. But folate also plays key roles in the synthesis and maintenance of DNA and is especially important in cell division and growth in fetal development (deficiencies of the vitamin in pregnancy is a common cause of birth defects). Pernicious anemia is a disorder in which the body's loses its ability to utilize folate and vitamin B12.

Image by TheVisualMD

Red Blood Cell in Capillary

The cardiovascular system is vast network of arteries, veins and vessels that would extend 60,000 miles if stretched end-to-end. All but a tiny fraction of this vessel network is invisible to the naked eye. The smallest capillaries (from latin "hairlike") are so narrow that red blood cells must pass through in single file. Higher than normal blood iron levels have been linked to heart disease and the reason is believed to be the oxidative stress the excess iron places on the walls of the blood vessels. It is the biological counterpart of rust. There are 20-30 trillion red blood cells (RBCs) in an adult's body. The life span of RBCs, which are produced in bone marrow, is about 100 days, which means that 2 million die (and are replaced) each second, but in that short lifetime they can make 75,000 round trips between lungs, heart and tissues in the body.

Image by TheVisualMD

Kidney and Stem Cell Creating Red Blood Cell. B12 is critical for the creation of red blood cells.

We are used to thinking of our kidneys mostly as hardworking filters that rid our bodies of wastes and excess water. But the kidneys are also constantly monitoring and adjusting levels of key substances in the blood, depending on what the body needs. Specialized cells in the kidney that are very sensitive to low oxygen levels, for example, produce a hormone called erythropoietin (EPO), which in turn promotes the production of red blood cells in the bone marrow. The boost in red blood cells increases the oxygen-carrying capacity of the blood.

Image by TheVisualMD

Healthy Capillary Blood Vessel

Cross-section of Healthy Capillary Blood Vessel with Normal Glucose and Insulin Levels

Cross-Section of Damaged Capillary Blood Vessel with Very High Glucose and Insulin Levels

1

2

3

Healthy Capillary Blood Vessel and and Damaged Capillary Blood Vessel Caused by High Levels of Blood Glucose

1) Healthy Capillary Blood Vessel - This image depicts a healthy capillary. Capillaries are the smallest blood vessels in your body. They can be so thin in diameter that blood cells have to bend in order to pass through. Capillaries are where the transfer of nutrients from the blood to cells, and the transfer of waste from cells to blood, takes place. In a healthy body, the blood vessels are smooth and elastic. 2) Cross-Section of Healthy Capillary Blood Vessel with Normal Glucose and Insulin Levels - This image depicts a healthy capillary. The body's cells depend on sugar in the blood, which is derived from carbohydrates, for food and energy. Allowing for the innumerable differences among individuals, the threshold for a normal blood sugar (glucose, pink) level in healthy people is 100 mg/dL; that is, 100 milligrams of glucose per deciliter of blood. Lower-than-normal levels characterize hypoglycemia and higher-than-normal levels characterize hyperglycemia. Without insulin (yellow), glucose is not able to enter cells to be used as fuel. Because of this, healthy insulin levels are a key factor in keeping blood glucose levels normal. 3) Cross-Section of Damaged Capillary Blood Vessel with Very High Glucose and Insulin Levels - This image depicts an unhealthy, damaged capillary with very high levels of insulin and glucose. Higher than normal levels of blood glucose lead to hyperglycemia. Hyperglycemia is the hallmark of prediabetes (between 100 and 125 mg/dL) and diabetes (126 mg/dL and higher). It is caused by either too little insulin being released by the pancreas or the body's inability to use insulin properly. Hyperglycemia leads to microangiopathy, marked by endothelial cell apoptosis (programmed cell death), accumulation of AGEs (advanced glycation end products), and thickening of the basement membrane, which can lead to the development of lesions, vasoconstriction, and altered vessel function

Interactive by TheVisualMD

5:57

Microcytic, normocytic, and macrocytic anemias | NCLEX-RN | Khan Academy

khanacademymedicine/YouTube

4:39

Non-megaloblastic Macrocytic Anemia

Medicosis Perfectionalis/YouTube

9:42

Microcytic anemia | Hematologic System Diseases | NCLEX-RN | Khan Academy

khanacademymedicine/YouTube

3:56

Living with and Managing Iron-Deficiency Anemia

NHLBI/YouTube

3:24

Hemolytic Anemia

DrER.tv/YouTube

3:16

Medical School - Anemia Made Easy

iMedicalSchool/YouTube

9:54

Iron deficency anemia diagnosis | Hematologic System Diseases | NCLEX-RN | Khan Academy

khanacademymedicine/YouTube

9:02

RBC Indices

Pathology Simplified/YouTube

4:32

Anemia: Basic lab tests - hematocrit, hemoglobin, reticulocyte, MCV, morphology

retic20/YouTube

33:35

WellnessFX: Red Blood Cell Indices Part 1 with Bryan Walsh

WellnessFX/YouTube

28:05

WellnessFX: Red Blood Cell Indices Part 2 with Bryan Walsh

WellnessFX/YouTube

Blood Brain Barrier Endothelium

TheVisualMD

Normal Blood Glucose Levels in Capillary

TheVisualMD

Cross-Section of Healthy Capillary Blood Vessel with Normal Glucose and Insulin Levels

TheVisualMD

Blood Vessels in the Brain

Ben Brahim Mohammed

Cross-Section of Damaged Capillary Blood Vessel with Very High Glucose and Insulin Levels

Blood Components

TheVisualMD

Test Tube Containing Blood

TheVisualMD

Blood Smear Showing Reduced Red Blood Cell Count

TheVisualMD

Red Blood Cell in Capillary

TheVisualMD

Kidney and Stem Cell Creating Red Blood Cell. B12 is critical for the creation of red blood cells.

TheVisualMD

Healthy Capillary Blood Vessel and and Damaged Capillary Blood Vessel Caused by High Levels of Blood Glucose

TheVisualMD

MCH

Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin Test

Also called: MCH, Mean cell hemoglobin

A mean corpuscular hemoglobin (MCH) test measures the amount of hemoglobin contained in a red blood cell. Lower or higher than normal MCH levels suggest different types of anemia.

Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin Test

Also called: MCH, Mean cell hemoglobin

A mean corpuscular hemoglobin (MCH) test measures the amount of hemoglobin contained in a red blood cell. Lower or higher than normal MCH levels suggest different types of anemia.

{"label":"Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin Reference Range","scale":"lin","step":0.1,"hideunits":false,"units":[{"printSymbol":"pg","code":"pg","name":"picogram"}],"items":[{"flag":"abnormal","label":{"short":"low","long":"low","orientation":"horizontal"},"values":{"min":0,"max":26.6},"text":"This can be seen in hypochromic anemias, usually caused by low iron levels.","conditions":["Hypochromic anemia","Low iron levels"]},{"flag":"normal","label":{"short":"normal","long":"normal","orientation":"horizontal"},"values":{"min":26.6,"max":33},"text":"Normal results vary based on the laboratory and the method used. If you have anemia, but your MCH result is normal, normochromic anemia is the diagnosis.","conditions":["Normochromic anemia",""]},{"flag":"abnormal","label":{"short":"high","long":"high","orientation":"horizontal"},"values":{"min":33,"max":100},"text":"This can be seen in hyperchromic anemias, usually caused by low folate intake or low B12 vitamin levels.","conditions":["Hyperchromic anemia","Low folate levels","Low vitamin B12 levels"]}],"value":29.8}[{"abnormal":0},{"normal":0},{"abnormal":0}]
Use the slider below to see how your results affect your health.
pg
26.6
33
Your result is normal.
Normal results vary based on the laboratory and the method used. If you have anemia, but your MCH result is normal, normochromic anemia is the diagnosis.
Related conditions
Normochromic anemia
Normal MCH range from 26.6 to 33 picograms/cell. However, normal values can slightly vary among different laboratories.
Abnormal MCH levels can be used as a reference to help distinguish between different types of anemia:
- Increased MCH: happens in hyperchromic anemias; the cause can be low folate intake or low B12 vitamin levels.
- Decreased MCH: happens in hypochromic anemias; the cause is usually low iron levels.
- If you have anemia, but your MCH result is normal: normochromic anemia is the diagnosis. This type of anemia may be the result of chronic diseases or sudden blood loss.
You should visit your doctor if you experience:
- Unexplained fatigue
- Pallor
- Heart palpitations
- Chest pain
- Dizziness
- Shortness of breath
- Exercise intolerance
- Weakness
- Headaches
1. https://emedicine.medscape.com/article/2054497-overview [accessed on Mar 28, 2019]
2. https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/003648.htm [accessed on Mar 28, 2019]
3. https://labtestsonline.org/tests/red-cell-indices [accessed on Mar 28, 2019]
4. https://www.labcorp.com/test-menu/23041/complete-blood-count-cbc-with-differential [accessed on Mar 28, 2019]
5. https://www.healthtestingcenters.com/what-does-high-mch-blood-test-result-mean [accessed on Mar 28, 2019]
6. https://www.labcorp.com/sites/testmenu/files/028142.pdf [accessed on Mar 28, 2019]

Normal reference ranges can vary depending on the laboratory and the method used for testing. You must use the range supplied by the laboratory that performed your test to evaluate whether your results are "within normal limits."

Additional Materials (6)

Anemia: Basic lab tests - hematocrit, hemoglobin, reticulocyte, MCV, morphology

Video by retic20/YouTube

Red Cell Distribution Width (RDW); What Does This Lab Test REALLY Mean?

Video by Medicosis Perfectionalis/YouTube

Red Blood Cell (RBC) Indices (Anemia Labs)

Video by Nursing School Explained/YouTube

RBC Indices

Video by Pathology Simplified/YouTube

WellnessFX: Red Blood Cell Indices Part 2 with Bryan Walsh

Video by WellnessFX/YouTube

Red Blood Cells

Figure shows normal red blood cells flowing freely in a blood vessel. The inset image shows a cross-section of a normal red blood cell with normal hemoglobin.

Image by NHLBI

4:32

Anemia: Basic lab tests - hematocrit, hemoglobin, reticulocyte, MCV, morphology

retic20/YouTube

5:54

Red Cell Distribution Width (RDW); What Does This Lab Test REALLY Mean?

Medicosis Perfectionalis/YouTube

7:45

Red Blood Cell (RBC) Indices (Anemia Labs)

Nursing School Explained/YouTube

9:02

RBC Indices

Pathology Simplified/YouTube

28:05

WellnessFX: Red Blood Cell Indices Part 2 with Bryan Walsh

WellnessFX/YouTube

Red Blood Cells

NHLBI

MCHC

Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin Concentration

Also called: MCHC, Erythrocyte mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration, Mean RBC Iron Concentration

The mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration (MCHC) test measures the concentration of hemoglobin contained in a red blood cell. This test is not reported alone but as part of a standard complete blood count, and it can be used to help differentiate possible causes of anemia.

Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin Concentration

Also called: MCHC, Erythrocyte mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration, Mean RBC Iron Concentration

The mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration (MCHC) test measures the concentration of hemoglobin contained in a red blood cell. This test is not reported alone but as part of a standard complete blood count, and it can be used to help differentiate possible causes of anemia.

{"label":"Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin Concentration Reference Range","scale":"lin","step":0.1,"hideunits":false,"units":[{"printSymbol":"g\/dL","code":"g\/dL","name":"gram per deciliter"}],"items":[{"flag":"abnormal","label":{"short":"Low","long":"Low","orientation":"horizontal"},"values":{"min":0,"max":31.5},"text":"Decreased MCHC happens in hypochromic anemias. The cause is usually low iron levels or other blood disorders. ","conditions":["Hypochromic anemia","Low iron levels","Thalassemia"]},{"flag":"normal","label":{"short":"Normal","long":"Normal","orientation":"horizontal"},"values":{"min":31.5,"max":35.7},"text":"Normal results vary based on the laboratory and the method used. If you have anemia, but your MCHC result is normal, normochromic anemia is the diagnosis.","conditions":["Normochromic anemia"]},{"flag":"abnormal","label":{"short":"High","long":"High","orientation":"horizontal"},"values":{"min":35.7,"max":70},"text":"Increased MCHC is seen in hyperchromic anemias and it can be the result of several blood disorders.","conditions":["Hyperchromic anemia","Hereditary spherocytosis","Hemolytic anemia"]}],"value":33.6}[{"abnormal":0},{"normal":0},{"abnormal":0}]
Use the slider below to see how your results affect your health.
g/dL
31.5
35.7
Your result is Normal.
Normal results vary based on the laboratory and the method used. If you have anemia, but your MCHC result is normal, normochromic anemia is the diagnosis.
Related conditions
Normochromic anemia
Normal reference ranges for MCHC are from 31.5 g/dL to 35.7 g/dL. However, normal values can slightly vary from laboratory to laboratory.
- Increased MCHC is seen in hyperchromic anemias. It can be the result of several blood disorders, including hereditary spherocytosis (which is a disorder that causes the red blood cells to be spherical rather than flat) and autoimmune hemolytic anemia (which is a condition where the body destroys red blood cells more rapidly than it produces them)
- Decreased MCHC happens in hypochromic anemias; the cause is usually low iron levels or thalassemia (an inherited condition characterized by abnormal hemoglobin production).
- If you have anemia but your MCHC and MCH results are normal: normochromic anemia is the diagnosis. This type of anemia may be the result of chronic diseases or sudden blood loss.
You should visit your doctor if you experience:
- Unexplained fatigue
- Pallor
- Heart palpitations
- Chest pain
- Dizziness
- Shortness of breath
- Exercise intolerance
- Weakness
- Headaches
1. https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/003648.htm [accessed on Mar 28, 2019]
2. https://emedicine.medscape.com/article/2054497-overview#a4 [accessed on Mar 28, 2019]
3. https://labtestsonline.org/tests/red-cell-indices [accessed on Mar 28, 2019]
4. https://werlabs.co.uk/full-blood-count/mchc/ [accessed on Mar 28, 2019]
5. https://www.healthline.com/health/low-mchc [accessed on Mar 28, 2019]
6. https://www.labcorp.com/sites/testmenu/files/028142.pdf [accessed on Mar 28, 2019]

Normal reference ranges can vary depending on the laboratory and the method used for testing. You must use the range supplied by the laboratory that performed your test to evaluate whether your results are "within normal limits."

Additional Materials (8)

Anemia: Basic lab tests - hematocrit, hemoglobin, reticulocyte, MCV, morphology

Video by retic20/YouTube

Red Blood Cell (RBC) Indices (Anemia Labs)

Video by Nursing School Explained/YouTube

RBC Indices

Video by Pathology Simplified/YouTube

WellnessFX: Red Blood Cell Indices Part 1 with Bryan Walsh

Video by WellnessFX/YouTube

WellnessFX: Red Blood Cell Indices Part 2 with Bryan Walsh

Video by WellnessFX/YouTube

Haemoglobin

Video by Wellcome Trust/YouTube

Red Cell Distribution Width (RDW); What Does This Lab Test REALLY Mean?

Video by Medicosis Perfectionalis/YouTube

Red Blood Cell

The RBC is disc-shaped and concave on both sides. The concave shape increases the cells' surface area, which allows them to distribute more oxygen to the body's cells. The shape also enables the cells to bunch together more compactly, helping them travel through the bloodstream more efficiently. Some RBCs are a bit thicker or thinner, wider or longer than others, but can change their shape to suit the demands of their environment. The cell membranes of the RBCs are protein meshes that give them flexibility, allowing them to navigate the twists and turns of the blood vessel network. The nearly 300 million hemoglobin molecules contained within each RBC easily move and slide past each other within the cell, adjusting their positions to conform to the RBC's shifting shape. Diameter : 7 μm

Image by TheVisualMD

4:32

Anemia: Basic lab tests - hematocrit, hemoglobin, reticulocyte, MCV, morphology

retic20/YouTube

7:45

Red Blood Cell (RBC) Indices (Anemia Labs)

Nursing School Explained/YouTube

9:02

RBC Indices

Pathology Simplified/YouTube

33:35

WellnessFX: Red Blood Cell Indices Part 1 with Bryan Walsh

WellnessFX/YouTube

28:05

WellnessFX: Red Blood Cell Indices Part 2 with Bryan Walsh

WellnessFX/YouTube

5:31

Haemoglobin

Wellcome Trust/YouTube

5:54

Red Cell Distribution Width (RDW); What Does This Lab Test REALLY Mean?

Medicosis Perfectionalis/YouTube

Red Blood Cell

TheVisualMD

RDW

RDW (Red Cell Distribution Width) Test

Also called: Red Cell Distribution Width, RDW, RDW Blood Test, Erythrocyte Distribution Width, RBC Distribution Width

A red cell distribution width (RDW) test measures the size and volume of your red blood cells. RDW is usually part of a complete blood count (CBC) test. Measuring RDW can help diagnose anemia and other blood disorders.

RDW (Red Cell Distribution Width) Test

Also called: Red Cell Distribution Width, RDW, RDW Blood Test, Erythrocyte Distribution Width, RBC Distribution Width

A red cell distribution width (RDW) test measures the size and volume of your red blood cells. RDW is usually part of a complete blood count (CBC) test. Measuring RDW can help diagnose anemia and other blood disorders.

{"label":"RDW reference range","scale":"lin","step":0.1,"hideunits":false,"items":[{"flag":"borderline","label":{"short":"Low","long":"Low","orientation":"horizontal"},"values":{"min":6,"max":11.5},"text":"A low RDW means that your red blood cells vary very little in size. A low RDW isn\u2019t usually a cause for concern and isn\u2019t associated with any particular types of anemia.","conditions":[]},{"flag":"normal","label":{"short":"Normal","long":"Normal","orientation":"horizontal"},"values":{"min":11.5,"max":14.5},"text":"A normal RDW means that your red blood cells are similar in size. A normal result doesn\u2019t mean that you don\u2019t have a condition requiring treatment. Some types of anemia involve a normal RDW result but a high or low score on one of the other RBC indices.","conditions":[]},{"flag":"abnormal","label":{"short":"High","long":"High","orientation":"horizontal"},"values":{"min":14.5,"max":20},"text":"A high RDW means that your red blood cells vary a lot in size. There are many possible reasons why the RDW level can be too high. To determine what the possible cause of a high RDW level is, a comparison is made to the mean corpuscular volume (MCV).","conditions":["Autoimmune condition","Hemolytic anemia","Iron deficiency anemia","Iron, B12, or folate deficiency","Kidney disease","Liver disease","Macrocytic anemia","Microcytic anemia","Thalassemia intermedia"]}],"units":[{"printSymbol":"%","code":"%","name":"percent"}],"value":13,"disclaimer":"Normal reference ranges can vary depending on the laboratory and the method used for testing. You must use the range supplied by the laboratory that performed your test to evaluate whether your results are \"within normal limits.\""}[{"borderline":0},{"normal":0},{"abnormal":0}]
Use the slider below to see how your results affect your health.
%
11.5
14.5
Your result is Normal.
A normal RDW means that your red blood cells are similar in size. A normal result doesn’t mean that you don’t have a condition requiring treatment. Some types of anemia involve a normal RDW result but a high or low score on one of the other RBC indices.
Related conditions
{"label":"RDW-SD reference range","scale":"lin","step":0.1,"hideunits":false,"items":[{"flag":"borderline","label":{"short":"Low","long":"Low","orientation":"horizontal"},"values":{"min":0,"max":39},"text":"A low RDW means that your red blood cells vary very little in size. A low RDW isn\u2019t usually a cause for concern and isn\u2019t associated with any particular types of anemia.","conditions":[]},{"flag":"normal","label":{"short":"Normal","long":"Normal","orientation":"horizontal"},"values":{"min":39,"max":46},"text":"A normal RDW means that your red blood cells are similar in size. A normal result doesn\u2019t mean that you don\u2019t have a condition requiring treatment. Some types of anemia involve a normal RDW result but a high or low score on one of the other RBC indices.","conditions":[]},{"flag":"abnormal","label":{"short":"High","long":"High","orientation":"horizontal"},"values":{"min":46,"max":100},"text":"A high RDW means that your red blood cells vary a lot in size. There are many possible reasons why the RDW level can be too high. To determine what the possible cause of a high RDW level is, a comparison is made to the mean corpuscular volume (MCV).","conditions":["Autoimmune condition","Hemolytic anemia","Iron deficiency anemia","Iron, B12, or folate deficiency","Kidney disease","Liver disease","Macrocytic anemia","Microcytic anemia","Thalassemia intermedia"]}],"units":[{"printSymbol":"fL","code":"fL","name":"femtoliter"}],"value":42.5,"disclaimer":"Normal reference ranges can vary depending on the laboratory and the method used for testing. You must use the range supplied by the laboratory that performed your test to evaluate whether your results are \"within normal limits.\""}[{"borderline":0},{"normal":0},{"abnormal":0}]
Use the slider below to see how your results affect your health.
fL
39
46
Your result is Normal.
A normal RDW means that your red blood cells are similar in size. A normal result doesn’t mean that you don’t have a condition requiring treatment. Some types of anemia involve a normal RDW result but a high or low score on one of the other RBC indices.
Related conditions
Your health care provider may have ordered a complete blood count, which includes an RDW test, as part of a routine exam, or if you have:
- Symptoms of anemia, including weakness, dizziness, pale skin, and cold hands and feet
- A family history of thalassemia, sickle cell anemia, or other inherited blood disorder
- A chronic illness such as Crohn's disease, diabetes, or HIV/AIDS
- A diet low in iron and other minerals
- A long-term infection
- Excessive blood loss from an injury or surgical procedure
RDW results help your provider understand how much your red blood cells vary in size and volume. Even if your RDW results are normal, you may still have a medical condition that needs treatment. That's why your provider will usually look at your RDW results along with the results of other blood tests. The combined test results can show a more complete picture of your red blood cells to help diagnose a variety of conditions, including:
- Iron deficiency
- Different types of anemia
- Thalassemia
- Sickle cell anemia
A high RDW result can also be a sign of other conditions, such as:
- Chronic liver disease
- Heart disease
- Diabetes
- Kidney disease
- Cancer, especially colorectal cancer
Your provider will most likely need more tests to confirm a diagnosis.
1. RDW (Red Cell Distribution Width): MedlinePlus Medical Test [accessed on Jan 22, 2024]
2. Red Blood Cell Distribution Width (RDW): Definition and Calculation - LabCE.com, Laboratory Continuing Education [accessed on Jan 22, 2024]

Normal reference ranges can vary depending on the laboratory and the method used for testing. You must use the range supplied by the laboratory that performed your test to evaluate whether your results are "within normal limits."

Additional Materials (39)

Red Cell Distribution Width (RDW); What Does This Lab Test REALLY Mean?

Video by Medicosis Perfectionalis/YouTube

Red Blood Cell Morphological Abnormalities

Video by MedLecturesMadeEasy/YouTube

Red Blood Cell (RBC) Indices (Anemia Labs)

Video by Nursing School Explained/YouTube

RBC Indices

Video by Pathology Simplified/YouTube

Anemia: Basic lab tests - hematocrit, hemoglobin, reticulocyte, MCV, morphology

Video by retic20/YouTube

Understanding the mean cell volume (MCV) - Full Blood Count Masterclass series

Video by Vernon Louw MedEd/YouTube

WellnessFX: Red Blood Cell Indices Part 2 with Bryan Walsh

Video by WellnessFX/YouTube

Red Blood Cells Carry Oxygen

This video focuses on one of the main components of blood, the red blood cell and its function to carry oxygen. The video begins with revealing the red blood cells and the heart that pumps the oxygenated blood to the rest of the body. Hemoglobin is the protein molecule found in these red blood cells that enable blood to transport oxygen. If the blood's capacity to transport oxygen to the tissues is reduced due to a decrease in the number of red blood cells, anemia may occur.

Image by TheVisualMD

Red Blood Cell Development

This video explains red blood cell development, following a pluripotent stem cell to red blood cell.

Image by TheVisualMD

Red Blood Cell Production

Red blood cell production or erythropoiesis is the process by which red blood cells are formed.

Image by TheVisualMD

What To Expect Before a Blood and Marrow Stem Cell Transplant

Georgetown University Hospital, Washington, D.C. (Dec. 4, 2002) - Surgical technician Amina Sherali places recently transfused bone marrow from Aviation Electronics Technician 1st Class Michael Griffioen into a sterile bag in preparation for transplant. To determine the amount of marrow needed from each donor, a sample is taken during the operation and T-cells are counted. The level of T-cells and the body size of the recipient determine the amount of bone marrow to be harvested. Griffioen is assigned to Precommissioning Unit Ronald Reagan and was matched with an anonymous cancer patient through the Department of Defense Marrow Donor Program. Griffioen chose to donate his bone marrow after participating in a donor drive nine years ago while stationed aboard USS George Washington.

Image by U.S. Navy photo by Photographer's Mate 2nd Class Chad McNeeley.

Bone structure

Anatomy of the bone. The bone is made up of compact bone, spongy bone, and bone marrow. Compact bone makes up the outer layer of the bone. Spongy bone is found mostly at the ends of bones and contains red marrow. Bone marrow is found in the center of most bones and has many blood vessels. There are two types of bone marrow: red and yellow. Red marrow contains blood stem cells that can become red blood cells, white blood cells, or platelets. Yellow marrow is made mostly of fat.

Image by Smart Servier website

Hematopoiesis

The Hematopoietic System of the Bone Marrow

Image by OpenStax College

Hemoglobin: Hemoglobin in Red Blood Cells

Hemoglobin is a complex, iron-containing protein molecule found in red blood cells; it is the iron in this molecule that makes red blood cells red. Hemoglobin enables red blood cells to carry oxygen from the lungs to all cells of the body.

Image by TheVisualMD

Red Blood Cells, Blood Smear

Individual blood cells were first detected and described in 17th century. Later, red blood cells were counted manually from a blood smear, a thin film of blood prepared on a glass slide and examined under a microscope. Blood analysis is now automated, though blood smears are still used to detect visible abnormalities. There are normally between 4.2-5.8 million red blood cells per microliter (about a drop), which means there are 20-30 trillion red blood cells circulating through the body of an adult.

Image by TheVisualMD

Blood and Blood Components

Like bone and cartilage, blood can be seen as a connective tissue, a mass of cells embedded in a framework. However, because its job is mobile, not fixed, its matrix is a liquid - plasma. Suspended in plasma are trillions of blood cells. Dimpled, disk-shaped red blood cells, built to provide a large surface in relation to volume, transport oxygen to tissues. Granular, many-lobed white blood cells, outnumbered by about 700 to 1, comprise a mobile defense force. Platelets, designed to aid in tissue repair, are tiny round or oval cell fragments that congregate around damaged sites in the bloodstream, swelling and sticking to each other to from temporary pugs that can stop leaks.

Image by TheVisualMD

Red Blood Cell

The RBC is disc-shaped and concave on both sides. The concave shape increases the cells' surface area, which allows them to distribute more oxygen to the body's cells. The shape also enables the cells to bunch together more compactly, helping them travel through the bloodstream more efficiently. Some RBCs are a bit thicker or thinner, wider or longer than others, but can change their shape to suit the demands of their environment. The cell membranes of the RBCs are protein meshes that give them flexibility, allowing them to navigate the twists and turns of the blood vessel network. The nearly 300 million hemoglobin molecules contained within each RBC easily move and slide past each other within the cell, adjusting their positions to conform to the RBC's shifting shape. Diameter : 7 μm

Image by TheVisualMD

Red Blood Cells Delivering Oxygen

Red blood cells deliver oxygen from the lungs to cells throughout the body and carry carbon dioxide from these cells back to the lungs. This continuous exchange is accomplished through a vast network of arteries, veins and vessels that would extend 60,000 miles if stretched end-to-end, enough to circle the globe 3-4 times. All but a tiny fraction of this vessel network is invisible to the naked eye. The smallest capillaries (from the Latin for \"hairlike\") are so narrow that red blood cells must pass through in single file.

Image by TheVisualMD

Red Blood Cell Revealing Cell Membrane

The RBC is disc-shaped and concave on both sides. The concave shape increases the cells' surface area, which allows them to distribute more oxygen to the body's cells. The shape also enables the cells to bunch together more compactly, helping them travel through the bloodstream more efficiently. The cell membrane of this RBC comes into view on the right side. The membrane is made up of protein meshes that gives the RBC flexibility, allowing it to navigate the twists and turns of the blood vessel network.

Image by TheVisualMD

Tubule of Nephron Revealing Few Red Blood Cell

Our kidneys are remarkable filters. Each day, they filter about 200 quarts of blood to extract about 2 quarts of wastes, which is then eliminated as urine. The kidneys' delicate filtration units are called nephrons; each kidney has about a million nephrons, and within each nephron are dense forests of tiny capillaries called glomeruli, which remove waste products from the blood while preventing the loss of other components, including proteins, electrolytes and blood cells. The glomerular filtration rate is the amount of blood that is filtered by the glomeruli per minute.

Image by TheVisualMD

Red Blood Cell

This image shows two red blood cells. The red blood cell is also called an erythrocyte: erythro is Greek for \"red,\" cyte is Latin for \"cell.\" The disc-shaped RBCs have the critical job of transporting oxygen from the lungs to the body's cells and bringing carbon dioxide from the cells back to the lungs to be expelled.

Image by TheVisualMD

Hemoglobin: Red Blood Cells

There are 20 to 30 trillion red blood cells circulating through the body of an adult. Individual red blood cells live about 100 days, which means that about 2 million die (and an equal number replaced) every second.

Image by TheVisualMD

Red Blood Cell Indices: Blood Component

Blood comprises of 55% plasma, 1% platelets and white blood cells, and 45% red blood cells.

Image by TheVisualMD

Bilirubin, Direct: Red Blood Cells

There are 20 to 30 trillion red blood cells circulating through the body of an adult. Individual red blood cells live about 100 days, which means that about 2 million die (and an equal number replaced) every second. Bilirubin is left behind after these older blood cells are removed.

Image by TheVisualMD

red blood cells

Illustration of red blood cells

Image by Jessica Polka

Thalassemic Red Blood Cell

This image shows red blood cells that are consistent with the anemia disorder thalassemia. They are less red and smaller than normal red blood cells.

Image by TheVisualMD

Iron Deficient Red Blood Cells

Anemia occurs when there are too few red blood cells in the bloodstream to deliver adequate oxygen to body tissues. There are different types and causes of anemia, but iron deficiency is the most common. Different tests can determine the amount of iron in the blood, the capacity of the blood to transport iron, and the amount of iron in storage. Iron is transported throughout the body with the help of proteins. The total iron binding capacity test (TIBC) measures the blood's ability to bind and transport iron

Image by TheVisualMD

White Blood Cell and Red Blood Cell

Medical visualization of blood cells. Depicted are numerous red blood cells and a single white blood cell.

Image by TheVisualMD

Blood Smear Showing Reduced Red Blood Cell Count

Individual blood cells were first detected and described in the 17th century. Later, red blood cells (RBCs) were counted manually from a blood smear, a thin film of blood prepared on a glass slide and examined under a microscope (blood analysis is now automated, though smears are still used to detect visible abnormalities and to check or confirm the results of other tests). Anemia results when there are too few RBCs in circulation because they are being destroyed too quickly or produced too slowly. Anemia can be temporary or long term and range from mild to severe. Folate (also known as vitamin B9) is necessary for red blood cell production and the prevention of anemia, as well as the metabolism of carbohydrates. But folate also plays key roles in the synthesis and maintenance of DNA and is especially important in cell division and growth in fetal development (deficiencies of the vitamin in pregnancy is a common cause of birth defects). Pernicious anemia is a disorder in which the body's loses its ability to utilize folate and vitamin B12.

Image by TheVisualMD

Red Blood Cell in Capillary

The cardiovascular system is vast network of arteries, veins and vessels that would extend 60,000 miles if stretched end-to-end. All but a tiny fraction of this vessel network is invisible to the naked eye. The smallest capillaries (from latin "hairlike") are so narrow that red blood cells must pass through in single file. Higher than normal blood iron levels have been linked to heart disease and the reason is believed to be the oxidative stress the excess iron places on the walls of the blood vessels. It is the biological counterpart of rust. There are 20-30 trillion red blood cells (RBCs) in an adult's body. The life span of RBCs, which are produced in bone marrow, is about 100 days, which means that 2 million die (and are replaced) each second, but in that short lifetime they can make 75,000 round trips between lungs, heart and tissues in the body.

Image by TheVisualMD

Kidney and Stem Cell Creating Red Blood Cell. B12 is critical for the creation of red blood cells.

We are used to thinking of our kidneys mostly as hardworking filters that rid our bodies of wastes and excess water. But the kidneys are also constantly monitoring and adjusting levels of key substances in the blood, depending on what the body needs. Specialized cells in the kidney that are very sensitive to low oxygen levels, for example, produce a hormone called erythropoietin (EPO), which in turn promotes the production of red blood cells in the bone marrow. The boost in red blood cells increases the oxygen-carrying capacity of the blood.

Image by TheVisualMD

Arteries and Veins

The body's blood vessels, consisting of arteries, veins, and capillaries, range in size from arteries as wide as a garden hose to capillaries so thin that it would take 10 of them, lined up side by side, to form the thickness of a human hair. But they all have one thing in common: they are designed to move blood as quickly and efficiently as possible. That means they need to be strong, flexible, and smooth. Even the components of your blood, like red blood cells, platelets, and white blood cells, are designed for movement. Red blood cells can actually flex so that they are able to flow through the finest of capillaries. The high levels of glucose characteristic of diabetes damage both large and small blood vessels. Too much glucose acts as a toxin to the lining of the blood vessels and injures both large vessels (arteries) and small vessels (capillaries). Damage to blood vessels is something that all the main complications of diabetes have in common. Many cells in the body, such as those of the skeletal muscles and liver, require insulin to admit glucose. This isn't true of the cells that line blood vessels, called endothelial cells. They can't restrict their glucose intake. When levels of blood glucose are very high, these cells develop high glucose levels as well. The high glucose levels start a whole chain of events inside the cells that damages them in numerous ways. About three quarters of people with diabetes die of cardiovascular disease-diseases of the heart and blood vessels.

Image by TheVisualMD

Red Blood Cells

Digital holographic microscopy (DHM) image of red blood cells.

Image by Egelberg (talk)

Red Blood Cell in Capillary

Red blood cells in capillaries carry oxygen to muscle and other tissues.

Image by TheVisualMD

Red Blood Cell Traveling Through Capillary

Red blood cells travel through a capillary, the smallest blood vessel in the body.

Image by TheVisualMD

Oxygenated vs deoxygenated Red Blood Cells (RBC)

A comparison between human red blood cells differing in oxygenation state. The cell on the left presents an oxygenated appearance as it would while in arterial circulation (after loading oxygen and unloading carbon dioxide in the lungs). The cell on the right appears as it would when deoxygenated, or in venous circulation (after unloading oxygen and loading carbon dioxide in the oxygen requiring-tissue capillaries).

Image by Rogeriopfm

Life Cycle of Red Blood Cell

We have a total of 20 to 30 trillion RBCs in the body and to maintain the body's healthy equilibrium, about 2.5 million RBCs are destroyed and replaced every second. In early development, RBC production begins in the yolk sac, shifts to the liver and spleen during the 3rd month of gestation, and finally to the bone marrow in the 5th month. Once adulthood is reached, the creation of RBCs is mostly restricted to the marrow from the ends of the \"long\" bones-the vertebrae, ribs, and pelvis-with a little produced in the skull. The life cycle of a normal RBC is about 120 days, just four months. But in that short lifetime the RBC makes an astonishing 75,000 round trips between the lungs, heart and cells of the body. Since RBCs do not possess a nucleus, they are unable to repair or synthesize new cellular components and eventually they wear out. When that happens, most aging RBCs are pulled out of circulation by specialized white blood cells called macrophages within the liver, spleen, and lymph nodes. The macrophages engulf RBCs, \"digest\" them and release some of their components to be recycled within the body. As old RBCs are broken down and their components re-utilized, the bone marrow is constantly at work producing new RBCs. In a healthy human being, this is a dynamic and continuous process.

Image by TheVisualMD

Sensitive content

This media may include sensitive content

Red Blood Cells

Diagram of a red blood cell

Image by Cancer Research UK uploader

Red Blood Cells

Figure shows normal red blood cells flowing freely in a blood vessel. The inset image shows a cross-section of a normal red blood cell with normal hemoglobin.

Image by NHLBI

5:54

Red Cell Distribution Width (RDW); What Does This Lab Test REALLY Mean?

Medicosis Perfectionalis/YouTube

15:24

Red Blood Cell Morphological Abnormalities

MedLecturesMadeEasy/YouTube

7:45

Red Blood Cell (RBC) Indices (Anemia Labs)

Nursing School Explained/YouTube

9:02

RBC Indices

Pathology Simplified/YouTube

4:32

Anemia: Basic lab tests - hematocrit, hemoglobin, reticulocyte, MCV, morphology

retic20/YouTube

8:22

Understanding the mean cell volume (MCV) - Full Blood Count Masterclass series

Vernon Louw MedEd/YouTube

28:05

WellnessFX: Red Blood Cell Indices Part 2 with Bryan Walsh

WellnessFX/YouTube

Red Blood Cells Carry Oxygen

TheVisualMD

Red Blood Cell Development

TheVisualMD

Red Blood Cell Production

TheVisualMD

What To Expect Before a Blood and Marrow Stem Cell Transplant

U.S. Navy photo by Photographer's Mate 2nd Class Chad McNeeley.

Bone structure

Smart Servier website

Hematopoiesis

OpenStax College

Hemoglobin: Hemoglobin in Red Blood Cells

TheVisualMD

Red Blood Cells, Blood Smear

TheVisualMD

Blood and Blood Components

TheVisualMD

Red Blood Cell

TheVisualMD

Red Blood Cells Delivering Oxygen

TheVisualMD

Red Blood Cell Revealing Cell Membrane

TheVisualMD

Tubule of Nephron Revealing Few Red Blood Cell

TheVisualMD

Red Blood Cell

TheVisualMD

Hemoglobin: Red Blood Cells

TheVisualMD

Red Blood Cell Indices: Blood Component

TheVisualMD

Bilirubin, Direct: Red Blood Cells

TheVisualMD

red blood cells

Jessica Polka

Thalassemic Red Blood Cell

TheVisualMD

Iron Deficient Red Blood Cells

TheVisualMD

White Blood Cell and Red Blood Cell

TheVisualMD

Blood Smear Showing Reduced Red Blood Cell Count

TheVisualMD

Red Blood Cell in Capillary

TheVisualMD

Kidney and Stem Cell Creating Red Blood Cell. B12 is critical for the creation of red blood cells.

TheVisualMD

Arteries and Veins

TheVisualMD

Red Blood Cells

Egelberg (talk)

Red Blood Cell in Capillary

TheVisualMD

Red Blood Cell Traveling Through Capillary

TheVisualMD

Oxygenated vs deoxygenated Red Blood Cells (RBC)

Rogeriopfm

Life Cycle of Red Blood Cell

TheVisualMD

Sensitive content

This media may include sensitive content

Red Blood Cells

Cancer Research UK uploader

Red Blood Cells

NHLBI

Complete Blood Count

Complete Blood Count

Also called: CBC, Full Blood Count, Blood Cell Count, Hemotology Panel

A complete blood count (CBC) is often part of a routine exam. It is used to measure different parts and features of your blood. A CBC can help detect a variety of disorders including infections, anemia, diseases of the immune system, and blood cancers.

Complete Blood Count

Also called: CBC, Full Blood Count, Blood Cell Count, Hemotology Panel

A complete blood count (CBC) is often part of a routine exam. It is used to measure different parts and features of your blood. A CBC can help detect a variety of disorders including infections, anemia, diseases of the immune system, and blood cancers.

A complete blood count, or CBC, is a blood test that measures many different parts and features of your blood, including:
- Red blood cells, which carry oxygen from your lungs to the rest of your body.
- White blood cells, which fight infections and other diseases. There are five major types of white blood cells. A CBC test measures the total number of white cells in your blood. A different test called a CBC with differential measures the number of each type of these white blood cells.
- Platelets, which stop bleeding by helping your blood to clot.
- Hemoglobin, a protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen from your lungs to the rest of your body.
- Hematocrit, a measurement of how much of your blood is made up of red blood cells.
- Mean corpuscular volume (MCV), a measure of the average size of your red blood cells.
Other names for a complete blood count: CBC, full blood count, blood cell count
Your health care provider may have ordered a complete blood count as part of your checkup or to monitor your overall health. The test may also be used to:
- Help diagnose blood diseases, infection, immune system disorders, or other medical conditions
- Check for changes in an existing blood disorder
A CBC counts the cells in your blood. There are many reasons your levels may not be in the normal range. For example:
- Abnormal levels of red blood cells, hemoglobin, or hematocrit may be a sign of anemia, heart disease, or too little iron in your body.
- Low white cell count may be a sign of an autoimmune disorder, bone marrow disorder, or cancer.
- High white cell count may be a sign of an infection or a reaction to medicine.
If any of your levels are abnormal, it doesn't always mean you have a medical condition that needs treatment. Diet, activity level, medicines, a menstrual period, not drinking enough water, and other factors can affect the results. Talk with your provider to learn what your results mean.
1. Complete Blood Count (CBC): MedlinePlus Medical Test [accessed on Jan 20, 2024]
2. Blood Tests - Blood Tests | NHLBI, NIH. Mar 24, 2022 [accessed on Jan 20, 2024]

Additional Materials (25)

Reticulocyte Count, Hemorrhage/Chronic Blood Loss

Reticulocytes are immature red blood cells (RBCs) released into the bloodstream from the bone marrow in which they developed. Normally, only a tiny percentage red blood cells circulating in the bloodstream are reticulocytes. The reticulocyte count rises, however, when bone marrow is called upon to produce more RBCs, in conditions such as heavy bleeding or certain types of anemia.

Image by TheVisualMD

Blood sample

During the blood collection process, medical personnel gather additional blood samples to test for an array of blood disorders and communicable diseases. Every unit of blood is rigorously tested before approved for transfusion into a patient.

Image by United States Marine Corps

Phlebotomy

Venipuncture (blood draw / collection) in the left arm of a male.

Image by MatthewLammers

Blood and Related Conditions

Blood and Related Conditions : Anemia results when there are too few red blood cells circulating in the bloodstream to deliver adequate oxygen to body tissues. There are different types and causes of anemia, including malnutrition, chronic bleeding, and diseases that result in red blood cells either being destroyed too quickly or produced too slowly.

Image by TheVisualMD

Components of Blood

Components of Blood : Our blood is composed of many different components, the largest categories being red and white blood cells (blood-clotting platelets are another key component) and the liquid portion known as blood plasma. A Complete Blood Count (CBC) includes several of the most basic, yet important, measurements of these components.

Image by TheVisualMD

Blood fractionation

Vial of separated blood. The middle layer is a type of sterile goo which separates the blood from the rest of what's drawn.

Image by Wheeler Cowperthwaite from Reno, USA

Whole Blood

A Red Cross whole blood donation before any separation

Image by Whoisjohngalt

White Blood Cells Rotation

This rotational interactive features five white blood cells. At the top left is a neutrophil (purple nucleus); center is a Monocyte-macrophage (orange nucleus); top right is a Lymphocyte (red nucleus); bottom left a Basophil (green nucleus); and bottom right an Eosinophil (yellow nucleus). These molecules are all part of a white blood cell count test. A white blood cell count is an important measure of this key component of the immune system; when the body is under attack, more WBCs are produced. White blood cells (also called leukocytes or WBCs) are in the front lines in the fight against harmful viruses, bacteria and even fungus. A white blood cell count is an important measure of this key component of the immune system; when the body is under attack, more WBCs are produced. Other factors, however, may also affect WBC counts, including allergies, chemotherapy, and other drugs, as well as leukemia.

Image by TheVisualMD

Medical Checkups

Image by TheVisualMD

Medical Checkups

Most doctors believe that people should have regular checkups as a part of preventive treatment. Regular health exams can help find problems before they begin, or in their early stages, when the chances of successful treatment are best. Blood Pressure Reading: Photo Copyright 2005, James Gathany

Image by TheVisualMD

This browser does not support the video element.

Complete Blood Count, and Baselining Your Health

Video Topics : Our lifeblood consists of many components and a complete blood count (CBC) includes measurements of the fundamental elements. The largest categories are red and white blood cells (RBCs and WBCs) and cell fragments called platelets, which play roles in blood clotting. There are 20-30 trillion red blood cells in the body of an adult, each with a lifespan of about 100 days (RBCs contain an iron-containing protein called hemoglobin that enables them to carry oxygen to tissues throughout the body and then return carbon dioxide to the lungs). WBCs are in the front lines in the body's ongoing fight against harmful viruses, bacteria and even fungus; when a pathogen enters the body, WBCs mobilize in a coordinated defense response to eliminate, neutralize or mark the invader for destruction. The liquid portion of blood is called plasma and it carries nutrients, electrolytes, waste products, and hormones.

Video by TheVisualMD

Full Blood Count – what it tells your doctor about your health

Video by Pathology Tests Explained/YouTube

Complete Blood Count (CBC)

Video by Medicosis Perfectionalis/YouTube

Complete Blood Count

Video by Tom Wade MD/YouTube

high white blood cell count Video

Video by itbestshop/YouTube

Complete Blood Count pt1

Video by Med Immersion/YouTube

Complete Blood Count pt2

Video by Med Immersion/YouTube

This browser does not support the video element.

Normal Red Blood Cell (RBC) Count

An animation simulating a view of a healthy count of red blood cells as viewed in a slide projector or under a microscope. Initially, the screen in white with a circular black vignette along its borders. Then a still showing red blood cells slides up from the bottom left filling the screen and then comes into focus. The red blood cells resemble those taken from an scanning electron micrograph (SEM) and fill up the given space on the screen.

Video by TheVisualMD

This browser does not support the video element.

Anemic Blood Flow

Camera is stationary as it focuses on a capillary in a cell bed demonstrating anemic blood flow and it's lower red blood cell count.

Video by TheVisualMD

This browser does not support the video element.

Anemic Red Blood Cell (RBC) Count

An animation simulating a view of an unhealthy count of red blood cells as viewed in a slide projector or under a microscope. Initially, the screen in white with a circular black vignette along its borders. Then a still showing red blood cells on a light red background slides up from the bottom left filling the screen and then comes into focus. The red blood cells resemble those taken from an scanning electron micrograph (SEM). There are only a few red blood cells in this slide indicative of the low amount typical of some one who is anemic.

Video by TheVisualMD

This browser does not support the video element.

Anemic Red Blood Cell (RBC) Count

An animation simulating a close-up of an unhealthy count of red blood cells as viewed in a slide projector or under a microscope. Initially, the screen in white with a circular black vignette along its borders. Then a still showing red blood cells on a light red background slides up from the bottom left filling the screen and then comes into focus. Throughout the animation, the slide jitters a little. The red blood cells resemble those taken from an scanning electron micrograph (SEM). In this close up there are a few red blood cells along with a few white blood cells.

Video by TheVisualMD

Why Blood Tests Can Save Your Life

Video by Seeker+/YouTube

Introduction to lab values and normal ranges | Health & Medicine | Khan Academy

Video by khanacademymedicine/YouTube

Low blood counts and the risk of infection in cancer patients | Norton Cancer Institute

Video by Norton Healthcare/YouTube

Dr. Erba Describes Proper Diagnostic Testing of CML

Video by OncLiveTV/YouTube

Reticulocyte Count, Hemorrhage/Chronic Blood Loss

TheVisualMD

Blood sample

United States Marine Corps

Phlebotomy

MatthewLammers

Blood and Related Conditions

TheVisualMD

Components of Blood

TheVisualMD

Blood fractionation

Wheeler Cowperthwaite from Reno, USA

Whole Blood

Whoisjohngalt

White Blood Cells Rotation

TheVisualMD

Medical Checkups

TheVisualMD

Medical Checkups

TheVisualMD

2:12

Complete Blood Count, and Baselining Your Health

TheVisualMD

4:18

Full Blood Count – what it tells your doctor about your health

Pathology Tests Explained/YouTube

7:04

Complete Blood Count (CBC)

Medicosis Perfectionalis/YouTube

4:11

Complete Blood Count

Tom Wade MD/YouTube

8:22

high white blood cell count Video

itbestshop/YouTube

16:12

Complete Blood Count pt1

Med Immersion/YouTube

22:14

Complete Blood Count pt2

Med Immersion/YouTube

0:06

Normal Red Blood Cell (RBC) Count

TheVisualMD

0:07

Anemic Blood Flow

TheVisualMD

0:14

Anemic Red Blood Cell (RBC) Count

TheVisualMD

0:14

Anemic Red Blood Cell (RBC) Count

TheVisualMD

8:29

Why Blood Tests Can Save Your Life

Seeker+/YouTube

10:42

Introduction to lab values and normal ranges | Health & Medicine | Khan Academy

khanacademymedicine/YouTube

1:32

Low blood counts and the risk of infection in cancer patients | Norton Cancer Institute

Norton Healthcare/YouTube

2:39

Dr. Erba Describes Proper Diagnostic Testing of CML

OncLiveTV/YouTube

White Blood Cells

White Blood Count (WBC)

Also called: WBC, WBC Blood Test, White Blood Count, White Blood Cell Count, Leukocyte Count, Leukopenia Test, Leukocytosis Test

A white blood count measures the number of white cells in your blood. White blood cells are part of the immune system. A count that is too high or too low can indicate an infection, immune system disorder, or another health problem.

White Blood Count (WBC)

Also called: WBC, WBC Blood Test, White Blood Count, White Blood Cell Count, Leukocyte Count, Leukopenia Test, Leukocytosis Test

A white blood count measures the number of white cells in your blood. White blood cells are part of the immune system. A count that is too high or too low can indicate an infection, immune system disorder, or another health problem.

{"label":"WBC count reference range","scale":"lin","step":1,"hideunits":false,"items":[{"flag":"abnormal","label":{"short":"Low","long":"Low","orientation":"horizontal"},"values":{"min":0,"max":4500},"text":"A low white blood cell count, called leukopenia, can result from a number of conditions and diseases, such as immune deficiencies, severe infections, and bone marrow disorders, among others. ","conditions":["Cancer","Severe infection","Bone marrow failure","Damage to the bone marrow","Drug toxicity","Aplastic anemia","Nutritional deficiencies","Autoimmune disorders"]},{"flag":"normal","label":{"short":"Normal","long":"Normal","orientation":"horizontal"},"values":{"min":4500,"max":11000},"text":"Normally, people produce about 100 billion white blood cells (WBCs) a day. The total white blood cell count normally ranges between 4,500 and 11,000 WBCs per microliter.","conditions":[]},{"flag":"abnormal","label":{"short":"High","long":"High","orientation":"horizontal"},"values":{"min":11000,"max":50000},"text":"A high white blood cell count, called leukocytosis, may result from a number of conditions and diseases, such as infections, inflammatory diseases, and physical stress, among others. ","conditions":["Infections","Inflammatory conditions","Allergic responses","Leukemia","Trauma","Burns","Physical stress"]}],"value":7750,"disclaimer":"Normal reference ranges can vary depending on the laboratory and the method used for testing. You must use the range supplied by the laboratory that performed your test to evaluate whether your results are \"within normal limits.\""}[{"abnormal":0},{"normal":0},{"abnormal":0}]
Use the slider below to see how your results affect your health.
4500
11000
Your result is Normal.
Normally, people produce about 100 billion white blood cells (WBCs) a day. The total white blood cell count normally ranges between 4,500 and 11,000 WBCs per microliter.
Related conditions
A white blood count measures the number of white cells in your blood. White blood cells are part of the immune system. They help your body fight off infections and other diseases.
When you get sick, your body makes more white blood cells to fight the bacteria, viruses, or other foreign substances causing your illness. This increases your white blood count.
Other diseases can cause your body to make fewer white blood cells than you need. This lowers your white blood count. Diseases that can lower your white blood count include some types of cancer and HIV/AIDS, a viral disease that attacks white blood cells. Certain medicines, including chemotherapy, may also lower the number of your white blood cells.
There are five major types of white blood cells:
- Neutrophils
- Lymphocytes
- Monocytes
- Eosinophils
- Basophils
A white blood count measures the total number of these cells in your blood. Another test, called a blood differential, measures the amount of each type of white blood cell.
Other names: WBC count, white cell count, white blood cell count
A white blood count is most often used to help diagnose disorders related to having a high white blood cell count or low white blood cell count.
Disorders related to having a high white blood count include:
- Autoimmune and inflammatory diseases, conditions that cause the immune system to attack healthy tissues
- Bacterial or viral infections
- Cancers such as leukemia and Hodgkin disease
- Allergic reactions
Disorders related to having a low white blood count include:
- Diseases of the immune system, such as HIV/AIDS
- Lymphoma, a cancer of the bone marrow
- Diseases of the liver or spleen
A white blood count can show if the number of your white blood cells is too high or too low, but it can't confirm a diagnosis. So it is usually done along with other tests, such as a complete blood count, blood differential, blood smear, and/or bone marrow test.
You may need this test if you have signs of an infection, inflammation, or autoimmune disease. Symptoms of infection include:
- Fever
- Chills
- Body aches
- Headache
Symptoms of inflammation and autoimmune diseases will be different, depending on the area of inflammation and type of disease.
You may also need this test if you have a disease that weakens your immune system or are taking medicine that lowers your immune response. If the test shows your white blood count is getting too low, your provider may be able to adjust your treatment.
Your newborn or older child may also be tested as part of a routine screening, or if they have symptoms of a white blood cell disorder.
A high white blood count may mean you have one of the following conditions:
- A bacterial or viral infection
- An inflammatory disease such as rheumatoid arthritis
- An allergy
- Leukemia or Hodgkin disease
- Tissue damage from a burn injury or surgery
A low white blood count may mean you have one of the following conditions:
- Bone marrow damage. This may be caused by infection, disease, or treatments such as chemotherapy.
- Cancers that affect the bone marrow
- An autoimmune disorder, such as lupus (or SLE)
- HIV/AIDS
If you are already being treated for a white blood cell disorder, your results may show if your treatment is working or whether your condition has improved.
If you have questions about your results, talk to your health care provider.
White blood count results are often compared with results of other blood tests, including a blood differential. A blood differential test shows the amount of each type of white blood cell, such as neutrophils or lymphocytes. Neutrophils mostly target bacterial infections. Lymphocytes mostly target viral infections.
- A higher than normal amount of neutrophils is known as neutrophilia.
- A lower than normal amount is known as neutropenia.
- A higher than normal amount of lymphocytes is known as lymphocytosis.
- A lower normal amount is known as lymphopenia.
1. White Blood Count (WBC): MedlinePlus Medical Test [accessed on Jan 20, 2024]
2. WBC count: MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia [accessed on Jan 20, 2024]
3. White Blood Cell Count (WBC Blood Test) - Testing.com. Sep 28, 2022 [accessed on Jan 20, 2024]

Normal reference ranges can vary depending on the laboratory and the method used for testing. You must use the range supplied by the laboratory that performed your test to evaluate whether your results are "within normal limits."

Additional Materials (37)

White Blood Cell Count: Bone Marrow

Disease or damage to the bone marrow, caused by infection, cancer, radiation treatment, or chemotherapy can lower white blood cell count by impairing the marrow's ability to produce new white blood cells.

Image by TheVisualMD

White Blood Cells, Bone Marrow

Bone marrow is constantly producing blood cells, including white blood cells and red blood cells as well platelets, which are cell fragments important for blood clotting. Disease and disorders of the bone marrow can, in turn, affect the production of blood cells. Both cancer and cancer treatment (chemotherapy and radiation) can also have an impact on the bone marrow's ability to produce blood cells.

Image by TheVisualMD

This browser does not support the video element.

Complete Blood Count, and Baselining Your Health

Video Topics : Our lifeblood consists of many components and a complete blood count (CBC) includes measurements of the fundamental elements. The largest categories are red and white blood cells (RBCs and WBCs) and cell fragments called platelets, which play roles in blood clotting. There are 20-30 trillion red blood cells in the body of an adult, each with a lifespan of about 100 days (RBCs contain an iron-containing protein called hemoglobin that enables them to carry oxygen to tissues throughout the body and then return carbon dioxide to the lungs). WBCs are in the front lines in the body's ongoing fight against harmful viruses, bacteria and even fungus; when a pathogen enters the body, WBCs mobilize in a coordinated defense response to eliminate, neutralize or mark the invader for destruction. The liquid portion of blood is called plasma and it carries nutrients, electrolytes, waste products, and hormones.

Video by TheVisualMD

The Immune System Explained I – Bacteria Infection

Video by Kurzgesagt – In a Nutshell/YouTube

Immune Response to Bacteria

Video by NIAID/YouTube

Immunology - Adaptive Immune System

Video by Armando Hasudungan/YouTube

Immune System - Natural Killer Cell

Video by Kyle Thornthwaite/YouTube

Your Immune System: Natural Born Killer - Crash Course Biology #32

Video by CrashCourse/YouTube

White Blood Cell and Red Blood Cell

Medical visualization of blood cells. Depicted are numerous red blood cells and a single white blood cell.

Image by TheVisualMD

White Blood Cell and Red Blood Cell

Medical visualization of blood cells. Depicted are numerous red blood cells and a single white blood cell.

Image by TheVisualMD

Red Blood Cell and White Blood Cell

Visualization of red blood cells and a white blood cell

Image by TheVisualMD

Sensitive content

This media may include sensitive content

Blood cells (from left to right: erythrocyte, thrombocyte, leukocyte)

A single drop of blood contains millions of red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. One of each type is shown here, isolated from a scanning electron micrograph.

Image by Electron Microscopy Facility at The National Cancer Institute at Frederick (NCI-Frederick)

Bone structure

Anatomy of the bone. The bone is made up of compact bone, spongy bone, and bone marrow. Compact bone makes up the outer layer of the bone. Spongy bone is found mostly at the ends of bones and contains red marrow. Bone marrow is found in the center of most bones and has many blood vessels. There are two types of bone marrow: red and yellow. Red marrow contains blood stem cells that can become red blood cells, white blood cells, or platelets. Yellow marrow is made mostly of fat.

Image by Smart Servier website

Blood Cells

Formed Elements of Blood

Image by Blausen.com staff (2014). \"Medical gallery of Blausen Medical 2014\"

Phagocytosis - C-reactive protein (CRP) is a substance made by the liver that is released into the bloodstream by inflammation and infection as part of the body's immune response.

C-reactive protein (CRP) is a substance made by the liver that is released into the bloodstream by inflammation and infection as part of the body's immune response. White blood cells are also mobilized by the immune system and CRP is believed to enhance the activity of the white blood cells called macrophages. Each type of white blood cell has its own specialized immune functions; macrophages, for example, basically engulf and \"eat\" foreign invaders such as bacteria, viruses and fungi. Macrophages in the spleen and the liver weed out old and defective red blood cells and break them into recyclables (iron, heme, and some globin) and wastes (such as bilirubin). The bilirubin is then used by the liver to produce bile, which is stored in the gallbladder and released into the small intestine to aid digestion.

Image by TheVisualMD

White blood cells

Immune cells surrounding hair follicles in mouse skin. These hair follicles are home to a diverse array of commensal bacteria.

Image by NIAID

Neutrophil

Neutrophil function, relationship to disease, and location in the human body. Credit: NIAID

Image by NIAID

Innate immune system

Image by US Gov

Macrophage Capturing Foreign Antigen

Cell-mediated immunity is an immune response that does not involve antibodies or complement but rather involves the activation of macrophages, natural killer cells (NK), antigen-specific cytotoxic T-lymphocytes, and the release of various cytokines in response to an antigen. Macrophages are white blood cells that engulf and digest cellular debris and pathogens

Image by TheVisualMD

Mast Cell

Mast cells produce histamine. Histamine is known for its role in inflammation. It affects a variety of behavior patterns including the sleep-wake cycle and food intake. Antihistamines may work at odds with inflammation and depression.

Image by TheVisualMD

Leukocytes

Image by OpenStax College

Innate immune system

Illustration of the Innate Immune System responding to injury.

Image by OpenStax College

Eosinophilia

Drawing of an eosinophil white blood cell

Image by Iceclanl

Two neutrophils among many red blood cells. Neutrophils are one type of cell affected by chronic granulomatous disease.

Image by Uploaded by Mgiganteus

Eosinophils

Eosinophil function, relationship to disease, and location in the human body.

Image by NIAID

Sensitive content

This media may include sensitive content

Blood Cells

This is a scanning electron microscope image from normal circulating human blood. One can see red blood cells, several white blood cells including lymphocytes, amonocyte, a neutrophil, and many small disc-shaped platelets. Red cells are nonnucleated and contain hemoglobin, an important protein that contains iron and allows the cell to carry oxygen to other parts of the body. They also carry carbon dioxide away from peripheral tissue to the lungs where it can be exhaled. The infection-fighting white blood cells are classified in two main groups: granular and agranular. All blood cells are formed in the bone marrow. There are two types of agranulocytes: lymphocytes, which fight disease by producing antibodies and thus destroying foreign material, and monocytes. Platelets are tiny cells formed in bone marrow and are necessary for blood clotting.

Image by Bruce Wetzel (photographer). Harry Schaefer (photographer), National Cancer Institute

Immune System and Autoimmune Diseases

Normally, an individual's immune system learns to identify and ignore all of the distinctive little structures found on that individual's own cells. Sometimes, however, it will make a mistake and identify its own body as foreign. If that happens, the immune system produces antibodies that attempt to destroy the body's own cells in the same way it would try to destroy a foreign invader.

Image by TheVisualMD

Eosinophils

Drawing of an eosinophil white blood cell

Image by BruceBlaus

Eosinophils

On the left there is a segmented polymorphonuclear neutrophil, on the right and below is one eosinophil leucocyte. For comparison the red blood cell have a diameter of 7-8 micrometers. The picture was taken with a Nikon Eclipse 600 microscope, magnification was 1000x.

Image by Davidcsaba Dr. David Csaba L.

Neutrophil action - Inflammation

Neutrophil granulocyte migrates from the blood vessel to the matrix, secreting proteolytic enzymes, in order to dissolve intercellular connections (for improvement of its mobility) and envelop bacteria through Phagocytosis.

Image by Uwe Thormann/Wikimedia

Neutrophil

Image by BruceBlaus

White Blood Cells

A type of immune cell. Most white blood cells are made in the bone marrow and are found in the blood and lymph tissue. White blood cells help the body fight infections and other diseases. Granulocytes, monocytes, and lymphocytes are white blood cells.

Image by Blausen.com staff (2014). "Medical gallery of Blausen Medical 2014"

high white blood cell count Video

Video by itbestshop/YouTube

What Are White Blood Cells | Health | Biology | FuseSchool

Video by FuseSchool - Global Education/YouTube

Learning to Decode Your Blood Test Results for Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia (CLL)

Video by CLL Society/YouTube

WellnessFX: White Blood Cells And Differential with Bryan Walsh

Video by WellnessFX/YouTube

White Blood Count

White Blood Count

Image by TheVisualMD

White Blood Cell Count: Bone Marrow

TheVisualMD

White Blood Cells, Bone Marrow

TheVisualMD

2:12

Complete Blood Count, and Baselining Your Health

TheVisualMD

6:49

The Immune System Explained I – Bacteria Infection

Kurzgesagt – In a Nutshell/YouTube

1:47

Immune Response to Bacteria

NIAID/YouTube

14:59

Immunology - Adaptive Immune System

Armando Hasudungan/YouTube

3:02

Immune System - Natural Killer Cell

Kyle Thornthwaite/YouTube

15:02

Your Immune System: Natural Born Killer - Crash Course Biology #32

CrashCourse/YouTube

White Blood Cell and Red Blood Cell

TheVisualMD

White Blood Cell and Red Blood Cell

TheVisualMD

Red Blood Cell and White Blood Cell

TheVisualMD

Sensitive content

This media may include sensitive content

Blood cells (from left to right: erythrocyte, thrombocyte, leukocyte)

Electron Microscopy Facility at The National Cancer Institute at Frederick (NCI-Frederick)

Bone structure

Smart Servier website

Blood Cells

Blausen.com staff (2014). \"Medical gallery of Blausen Medical 2014\"

Phagocytosis - C-reactive protein (CRP) is a substance made by the liver that is released into the bloodstream by inflammation and infection as part of the body's immune response.

TheVisualMD

White blood cells

NIAID

Neutrophil

NIAID

Innate immune system

US Gov

Macrophage Capturing Foreign Antigen

TheVisualMD

Mast Cell

TheVisualMD

Leukocytes

OpenStax College

Innate immune system

OpenStax College

Eosinophilia

Iceclanl

Two neutrophils among many red blood cells. Neutrophils are one type of cell affected by chronic granulomatous disease.

Uploaded by Mgiganteus

Eosinophils

NIAID

Sensitive content

This media may include sensitive content

Blood Cells

Bruce Wetzel (photographer). Harry Schaefer (photographer), National Cancer Institute

Immune System and Autoimmune Diseases

TheVisualMD

Eosinophils

BruceBlaus

Eosinophils

Davidcsaba Dr. David Csaba L.

Neutrophil action - Inflammation

Uwe Thormann/Wikimedia

Neutrophil

BruceBlaus

White Blood Cells

Blausen.com staff (2014). "Medical gallery of Blausen Medical 2014"

8:22

high white blood cell count Video

itbestshop/YouTube

3:12

What Are White Blood Cells | Health | Biology | FuseSchool

FuseSchool - Global Education/YouTube

1:17:17

Learning to Decode Your Blood Test Results for Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia (CLL)

CLL Society/YouTube

16:52

WellnessFX: White Blood Cells And Differential with Bryan Walsh

WellnessFX/YouTube

White Blood Count

TheVisualMD

Platelets

Platelet Count

Also called: Platelets, PLT Count, Platelet Adequacy, Thrombocyte Count, Thrombocytopenia Test, Thrombocytosis Test, Platelet count

A platelet count test measures the number of platelets in your blood. Platelets, also known as thrombocytes, are small blood cells that are essential for blood clotting. Platelets may be counted to monitor or diagnose diseases, or to look for the cause of too much bleeding or clotting.

Platelet Count

Also called: Platelets, PLT Count, Platelet Adequacy, Thrombocyte Count, Thrombocytopenia Test, Thrombocytosis Test, Platelet count

A platelet count test measures the number of platelets in your blood. Platelets, also known as thrombocytes, are small blood cells that are essential for blood clotting. Platelets may be counted to monitor or diagnose diseases, or to look for the cause of too much bleeding or clotting.

{"label":"Platelet count reference range","scale":"lin","step":1,"hideunits":false,"items":[{"flag":"abnormal","label":{"short":"VL","long":"Very low","orientation":"horizontal"},"values":{"min":1,"max":50},"text":"A lower-than-normal platelet count is called thrombocytopenia. This condition can cause you to bleed too much after a cut or other injury that causes bleeding. If your platelet count is very low, your risk for bleeding is higher. Even every day activities can cause bleeding. Thrombocytopenia can be life-threatening, especially if you have serious bleeding or bleeding in your brain. ","conditions":["Autoimmune disorders","Leukemia","Von Willebrand disease","Glanzmann's thrombasthenia","Bernard-Soulier syndrome","Storage pool disease","Acquired platelet dysfunction","Heavy alcohol intake","Severe bleeding"]},{"flag":"abnormal","label":{"short":"Low","long":"Low","orientation":"horizontal"},"values":{"min":50,"max":150},"text":"A lower-than-normal platelet count is called thrombocytopenia. This condition can cause you to bleed too much after a cut or other injury that causes bleeding. Bleeding can happen inside your body, underneath your skin, or from the surface of your skin.","conditions":["Thrombocytopenia","Autoimmune disorders","Leukemia","Von Willebrand disease","Glanzmann's thrombasthenia","Bernard-Soulier syndrome","Storage pool disease","Acquired platelet dysfunction","Heavy alcohol intake"]},{"flag":"normal","label":{"short":"N","long":"Normal","orientation":"horizontal"},"values":{"min":150,"max":450},"text":"A normal platelet count ranges from 150,000 to 450,000 platelets per microliter of blood. Platelets are tiny blood cells that are made in the bone marrow from larger cells. When you are injured, platelets stick together to form a plug to seal your wound. This plug is called a blood clot.","conditions":[]},{"flag":"abnormal","label":{"short":"H","long":"High","orientation":"horizontal"},"values":{"min":450,"max":1000},"text":"A higher-than-normal platelet count is called thrombocytosis. This can make your blood clot more than you need it to. Blood clots can be dangerous because they can block blood flow.","conditions":["Thrombocytosis","Essential thrombocythemia","Bone marrow disease","Infections","Spleen removal"]}],"units":[{"printSymbol":"(10³)\/\u03bcL","code":"10*3\/uL","name":"thousand per microliter"}],"value":300,"disclaimer":"Normal reference ranges can vary depending on the laboratory and the method used for testing. You must use the range supplied by the laboratory that performed your test to evaluate whether your results are \"within normal limits.\""}[{"abnormal":1},{"abnormal":0},{"normal":0},{"abnormal":0}]
Use the slider below to see how your results affect your health.
(10³)/μL
50
150
450
Your result is Normal.
A normal platelet count ranges from 150,000 to 450,000 platelets per microliter of blood. Platelets are tiny blood cells that are made in the bone marrow from larger cells. When you are injured, platelets stick together to form a plug to seal your wound. This plug is called a blood clot.
Related conditions
You may need platelet count testing if you have symptoms of having too few or too many platelets.
Symptoms of too few platelets include:
- Prolonged bleeding after a minor cut or injury
- Nosebleeds
- Unexplained bruising
- Pinpoint sized red spots on the skin, known as petechiae
- Purplish spots on the skin, known as purpura. These may be caused by bleeding under the skin.
- Heavy and/or prolonged menstrual periods
Symptoms of too many platelets include:
- Numbness of hands and feet
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Weakness
If your results show a lower than normal platelet count (thrombocytopenia), it may indicate:
- A cancer that affects the blood, such as leukemia or lymphoma
- A viral infection, such as mononucleosis, hepatitis, or measles
- An autoimmune disease. This is a disorder that causes the body to attack its own healthy tissues, which can include platelets.
- Infection or damage to the bone marrow
- Cirrhosis
- Vitamin B12 deficiency
- Gestational thrombocytopenia, a common, but mild, low-platelet condition affecting pregnant women. It is not known to cause any harm to a mother or her unborn baby. It usually gets better on its own during pregnancy or after birth.
If your results show a higher than normal platelet count (thrombocytosis), it may indicate:
- Certain types of cancer, such as lung cancer or breast cancer
- Anemia
- Inflammatory bowel disease
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- A viral or bacterial infection
1. Platelet Tests: MedlinePlus Medical Test [accessed on Jan 20, 2024]
2. Platelet Count (PLT) Blood Test - Testing.com. Dec 19, 2023 [accessed on Jan 20, 2024]
3. Platelet count: MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia [accessed on Jan 20, 2024]

Normal reference ranges can vary depending on the laboratory and the method used for testing. You must use the range supplied by the laboratory that performed your test to evaluate whether your results are "within normal limits."

Additional Materials (8)

Platelet Development

Illustration of Platelet Development

Image by OpenStax College

Sensitive content

This media may include sensitive content

Platelet Disorders

From left to right: erythrocyte, thrombocyte, leukocyte

Image by Electron Microscopy Facility at The National Cancer Institute at Frederick (NCI-Frederick)

Scheme of a blood sample after centrifugation

scheme of a blood sample after centrifugation

Image by KnuteKnudsen (talk)

Decode Your Blood Test: Platelets 💉 | Merck Manual Consumer Version

Video by Merck Manuals/YouTube

This browser does not support the video element.

Complete Blood Count, and Baselining Your Health

Video Topics : Our lifeblood consists of many components and a complete blood count (CBC) includes measurements of the fundamental elements. The largest categories are red and white blood cells (RBCs and WBCs) and cell fragments called platelets, which play roles in blood clotting. There are 20-30 trillion red blood cells in the body of an adult, each with a lifespan of about 100 days (RBCs contain an iron-containing protein called hemoglobin that enables them to carry oxygen to tissues throughout the body and then return carbon dioxide to the lungs). WBCs are in the front lines in the body's ongoing fight against harmful viruses, bacteria and even fungus; when a pathogen enters the body, WBCs mobilize in a coordinated defense response to eliminate, neutralize or mark the invader for destruction. The liquid portion of blood is called plasma and it carries nutrients, electrolytes, waste products, and hormones.

Video by TheVisualMD

Platelets Nursing Considerations, Normal Range, Nursing Care, Lab Values Nursing

Video by NURSINGcom/YouTube

Platelets Explained in Two Minutes

Video by American Red Cross/YouTube

The life and times of RBCs and platelets

Video by khanacademymedicine/YouTube

Platelet Development

OpenStax College

Sensitive content

This media may include sensitive content

Platelet Disorders

Electron Microscopy Facility at The National Cancer Institute at Frederick (NCI-Frederick)

Scheme of a blood sample after centrifugation

KnuteKnudsen (talk)

0:48

Decode Your Blood Test: Platelets 💉 | Merck Manual Consumer Version

Merck Manuals/YouTube

2:12

Complete Blood Count, and Baselining Your Health

TheVisualMD

3:54

Platelets Nursing Considerations, Normal Range, Nursing Care, Lab Values Nursing

NURSINGcom/YouTube

1:47

Platelets Explained in Two Minutes

American Red Cross/YouTube

10:35

The life and times of RBCs and platelets

khanacademymedicine/YouTube

Hemoglobin

Hemoglobin Blood Test

Also called: Hemoglobin, Hgb

A hemoglobin test measures the levels of hemoglobin in your blood. Hemoglobin is an iron-rich protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen. Abnormal levels may mean you have anemia or another blood disorder.

Hemoglobin Blood Test

Also called: Hemoglobin, Hgb

A hemoglobin test measures the levels of hemoglobin in your blood. Hemoglobin is an iron-rich protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen. Abnormal levels may mean you have anemia or another blood disorder.

{"label":"Hemoglobin reference range","scale":"lin","step":0.1,"hideunits":false,"items":[{"flag":"abnormal","label":{"short":"Low","long":"Low","orientation":"horizontal"},"values":{"min":0,"max":13.8},"text":"Low levels of hemoglobin indicate that there is a shortage of red blood cells; this can be the result of RBCs being lost or destroyed too quickly or produced too slowly.","conditions":["Iron deficiency","Vitamin B12 deficiency","Folate deficiency","Sickle cell disease","Thalassemia","Cirrhosis","Bone marrow damage","Chronic disease","Acute or chronic bleeding"]},{"flag":"normal","label":{"short":"Normal","long":"Normal","orientation":"horizontal"},"values":{"min":13.8,"max":17.2},"text":"Heme, an iron-containing molecule, combines with globin proteins to form hemoglobin, which carries oxygen in red blood cells from the lungs to the rest of the body. ","conditions":[]},{"flag":"abnormal","label":{"short":"High","long":"High","orientation":"horizontal"},"values":{"min":17.2,"max":30},"text":"High levels of hemoglobin can be the result of dehydration, lung disease and other conditions.","conditions":["Polycythemia","Dehydration","Bone marrow diseases","Severe lung disease","Heart disease","Smoking","Living at high altitudes"]}],"units":[{"printSymbol":"g\/dL","code":"g\/dL","name":"gram per deciliter"}],"value":15.5,"disclaimer":"Normal reference ranges can vary depending on the laboratory and the method used for testing. You must use the range supplied by the laboratory that performed your test to evaluate whether your results are \"within normal limits.\""}[{"abnormal":0},{"normal":0},{"abnormal":0}]
Use the slider below to see how your results affect your health.
g/dL
13.8
17.2
Your result is Normal.
Heme, an iron-containing molecule, combines with globin proteins to form hemoglobin, which carries oxygen in red blood cells from the lungs to the rest of the body.
Related conditions
Your health care provider may order the test as part of a routine exam, or if you have:
- Symptoms of anemia, which include weakness, dizziness, and cold hands and feet
- A family history of thalassemia, sickle cell anemia, or other inherited blood disorder
- A diet low in iron and other minerals
- A long-term infection
- Excessive blood loss from an injury or surgical procedure
There are many reasons your hemoglobin levels may not be in the normal range.
Low hemoglobin levels may be a sign of:
- Different types of anemia
- Thalassemia
- Iron deficiency
- Liver disease
- Cancer and other diseases
High hemoglobin levels may be a sign of:
- Lung disease
- Heart disease
- Polycythemia vera, a disorder in which your body makes too many red blood cells. It can cause headaches, fatigue, and shortness of breath.
If any of your levels are abnormal, it doesn't always mean you have a medical condition that needs treatment. Diet, activity level, medicines, a menstrual period, and other factors can affect the results. You may also have higher than normal hemoglobin levels if you live in a high altitude area. Talk with your provider to learn what your results mean.
1. Hemoglobin Test: MedlinePlus Medical Test [accessed on Jan 20, 2024]
2. Hemoglobin: MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia [accessed on Jan 20, 2024]
3. Hemoglobin - Health Encyclopedia - University of Rochester Medical Center [accessed on Jan 20, 2024]

Normal reference ranges can vary depending on the laboratory and the method used for testing. You must use the range supplied by the laboratory that performed your test to evaluate whether your results are "within normal limits."

Additional Materials (16)

Hemoglobin | Human anatomy and physiology | Health & Medicine | Khan Academy

Video by Khan Academy/YouTube

Blood, Part 2 - There Will Be Blood: Crash Course A&P #30

Video by CrashCourse/YouTube

Haemoglobin

Video by Wellcome Trust/YouTube

Hemoglobin A1c & Diabetes

Video by DiabeTV/YouTube

Hemoglobin Molecule

Molecule of hemoglobin.

Image by TheVisualMD

Hemoglobin A1C Molecule

Hemoglobin is a protein found inside red blood cells that carries oxygen from the lungs to cells throughout the body. Hemoglobin also binds with glucose. Diabetics have too much glucose in the bloodstream and this extra glucose binds (or glycates) with hemoglobin. Glycated hemoglobin usually stays glycated for the life of the red blood cell (about 3 months). Therefore, the percentage of hemoglobin that is glycated (measured as A1C) reflects glucose levels that have affected red blood cells up to 3 months in the past. The hemoglobin A1C test measures the percentage of hemoglobin bound to blood sugar (glucose); the test is used to diagnose type 1 and type 2 diabetes. Because the test results reflect average blood sugar levels over a period of 2-3 months (rather than daily fluctuations), the hemoglobin A1C test is also used to gauge how well patients are managing their diabetes over time.

Image by TheVisualMD

Hemoglobin A1C: Red Blood Cells

Red blood cells use the iron-rich protein hemoglobin to carry oxygen from the lungs to cells throughout the body and return carbon dioxide to the lungs. The percentage of hemoglobin bound to blood glucose (hemoglobin A1C) is used to diagnose diabetes.

Image by TheVisualMD

Hemoglobin of Red Blood Cell

Hemoglobin is an iron-containing protein found in red blood cells that binds oxygen and carbon dioxide for transport and delivery to different parts of the body.

Image by TheVisualMD

Hemoglobin Molecule

Hemoglobin is an iron-rich protein that is packed inside RBCs. It is a structurally complex molecule that can change shape to either hold or release oxygen, depending on the body's need. There are close to 300 million hemoglobin molecules within each RBC.

Image by TheVisualMD

Hemoglobin Molecule Heme Group

A heme group in a hemoglobin molecule consists of an iron atom bound equally to four nitrogen atoms, all lying in one plane. The iron atom is the site of oxygen binding.

Image by TheVisualMD

This browser does not support the video element.

Hemoglobin Within Red Blood Cell (RBC)

A red blood cell rushes toward the camera, the camera enters the cell to focus on all of the hemoglobin molecules within

Video by TheVisualMD

Hemoglobin, Carbon Monoxide

Hemoglobin is an iron-containing protein that enables red blood cells to deliver oxygen from the lungs to cells throughout the body. But the same binding site on the hemoglobin molecule has an even stronger affinity for carbon monoxide, which is why we are so susceptible to poisoning by this deadly gas; carbon monoxide grabs all the binding sites and starves the body's tissues of oxygen

Image by TheVisualMD

This browser does not support the video element.

Hemoglobin A1c

The hemoglobin A1c test measures the percentage of hemoglobin bound to blood sugar (glucose); the test is used to diagnose type 1 and type 2 diabetes. Because the test results reflect average blood sugar levels over a period of 2-3 months (rather than daily fluctuations), the hemoglobin A1C test is also used to gauge how well patients are managing their diabetes over time.

Video by TheVisualMD

Hemoglobin A1c

The hemoglobin A1c test measures the percentage of hemoglobin bound to blood sugar (glucose); the test is used to diagnose type 1 and type 2 diabetes. Because the test results reflect average blood sugar levels over a period of 2-3 months (rather than daily fluctuations), the hemoglobin A1C test is also used to gauge how well patients are managing their diabetes over time.

Image by TheVisualMD

Hemoglobin: O2 Binding Hemoglobin

Hemoglobin normally binds to life-sustaining oxygen. But the same binding site on the hemoglobin molecule has an even stronger affinity for carbon monoxide, which is why we are so susceptible to poisoning by this deadly gas.

Image by TheVisualMD

HemoglobinA1C

Hemoglobin Test for O2 Binding Hemoglobin : A hemoglobin test is a measurement of your blood's oxygen-carrying capacity. High levels of hemoglobin can be the result of dehydration, lung disease and other conditions. Low levels of hemoglobin indicate that there is a shortage of red blood cells; this can be the result of RBCs being lost or destroyed too quickly or produced too slowly. Hemoglobin is an iron-containing protein that enables red blood cells to deliver oxygen from the lungs to cells throughout the body. But the same binding site on the hemoglobin molecule has an even stronger affinity for carbon monoxide, which is why we are so susceptible to poisoning by this deadly gas; carbon monoxide grabs all the binding sites and starves the body's tissues of oxygen.

Image by TheVisualMD

14:34

Hemoglobin | Human anatomy and physiology | Health & Medicine | Khan Academy

Khan Academy/YouTube

10:01

Blood, Part 2 - There Will Be Blood: Crash Course A&P #30

CrashCourse/YouTube

5:31

Haemoglobin

Wellcome Trust/YouTube

1:43

Hemoglobin A1c & Diabetes

DiabeTV/YouTube

Hemoglobin Molecule

TheVisualMD

Hemoglobin A1C Molecule

TheVisualMD

Hemoglobin A1C: Red Blood Cells

TheVisualMD

Hemoglobin of Red Blood Cell

TheVisualMD

Hemoglobin Molecule

TheVisualMD

Hemoglobin Molecule Heme Group

TheVisualMD

0:27

Hemoglobin Within Red Blood Cell (RBC)

TheVisualMD

Hemoglobin, Carbon Monoxide

TheVisualMD

0:27

Hemoglobin A1c

TheVisualMD

Hemoglobin A1c

TheVisualMD

Hemoglobin: O2 Binding Hemoglobin

TheVisualMD

HemoglobinA1C

TheVisualMD

Hematocrit

Hematocrit Blood Test

Also called: Hematrocit, HCT, Crit, Packed Cell Volume, PCV

Hematocrit is a blood test that measures how much of a person's blood is made up of red blood cells. Hematocrit levels that are too high or too low can be a sign of a blood disorder, dehydration, or other medical conditions that affect your blood.

Hematocrit Blood Test

Also called: Hematrocit, HCT, Crit, Packed Cell Volume, PCV

Hematocrit is a blood test that measures how much of a person's blood is made up of red blood cells. Hematocrit levels that are too high or too low can be a sign of a blood disorder, dehydration, or other medical conditions that affect your blood.

{"label":"Hematocrit reference range","scale":"lin","step":0.1,"hideunits":false,"items":[{"flag":"abnormal","label":{"short":"Low","long":"Low","orientation":"horizontal"},"values":{"min":0,"max":40.7},"text":"A hematocrit level below the normal range, meaning the person has too few red blood cells, is called anemia.","conditions":["Anemia","Bleeding","Bone marrow cancers and disorders","Chronic illness","Chronic kidney disease","Destruction of red blood cells (hemolysis)","Leukemia","Malnutrition","Too little iron, folate, vitamin B12, and vitamin B6 in the diet","Too much water in the body"]},{"flag":"normal","label":{"short":"Normal","long":"Normal","orientation":"horizontal"},"values":{"min":40.7,"max":50.3},"text":"Normal hematocrit levels vary based on age and race. In adults, normal levels for men range from 41%-50%. For women, the normal range is slightly lower: 36%-44%.","conditions":[]},{"flag":"abnormal","label":{"short":"High","long":"High","orientation":"horizontal"},"values":{"min":50.3,"max":100},"text":"A hematocrit level above the normal range, meaning too many red blood cells, may indicate polycythemia or erythrocytosis. High hematocrits can be seen in people living at high altitudes and in chronic smokers.","conditions":["Polycythemia vera","Congenital heart disease","Exposure to high altitude","Failure of the right side of the heart","Low levels of oxygen in the blood","Scarring or thickening of the lungs","Too little water in the body (dehydration)"]}],"units":[{"printSymbol":"%","code":"%","name":"percent"}],"value":45.5,"disclaimer":"Normal reference ranges can vary depending on the laboratory and the method used for testing. You must use the range supplied by the laboratory that performed your test to evaluate whether your results are \"within normal limits.\""}[{"abnormal":0},{"normal":0},{"abnormal":0}]
Use the slider below to see how your results affect your health.
%
40.7
50.3
Your result is Normal.
Normal hematocrit levels vary based on age and race. In adults, normal levels for men range from 41%-50%. For women, the normal range is slightly lower: 36%-44%.
Related conditions
Your health care provider may order a hematocrit test as part of your regular checkup or to monitor your health if you are being treated for cancer or have an ongoing health condition. Your provider may also order this test if you have symptoms of a red blood cell disorder, such as anemia or polycythemia:
Symptoms of anemia (too few red blood cells) may include:
- Shortness of breath
- Weakness or fatigue
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Arrhythmia (a problem with the rate or rhythm of your heartbeat)
Symptoms of polycythemia (too many red blood cells) may include:
- Headache
- Feeling light-headed or dizzy
- Shortness of breath
- Weakness or fatigue
- Skin symptoms such as itching after a shower or bath, burning, or a red face
- Heavy sweating, especially during sleep
- Blurred or double vision and blind spots
- Bleeding gums and heavy bleeding from small cuts
Your hematocrit test results are reported as a number. That number is the percentage of your blood that's made of red blood cells. For example, if your hematocrit test result is 42, it means that 42% of your blood is red blood cells and the rest is white blood cells, platelets, and blood plasma.
A hematocrit level that's lower than normal may be a sign that:
- Your body doesn't have enough red blood cells (anemia). There are many types of anemia that can be caused by different medical conditions.
- Your body is making too many white blood cells, which may be caused by:
  Bone marrow disease
  Certain cancers, including leukemia, lymphoma, multiple myeloma, or cancers that spread to the bone marrow from other parts of the body
A hematocrit level that's higher than normal may be a sign that:
- Your body is making too many red blood cells, which may be caused by:
  Lung disease
  Congenital heart disease
  Heart failure
  Polycythemia
- Your blood plasma level is too low, which may be caused by:
  Dehydration, the most common cause of a high hematocrit
  Shock
If your results are not in the normal range, it doesn't always mean that you have a medical condition that needs treatment. Living at high altitudes where there's less oxygen in the air may cause a high hematocrit. That's because your body responds to low oxygen levels by making more red blood cells so that you get the oxygen you need.
Pregnancy can cause a low hematocrit. That's because the body has more fluid than normal during pregnancy, which decreases the percentage that's made of red blood cells.
To learn what your test results mean, talk with your provider.
1. Hematocrit Test: MedlinePlus Medical Test [accessed on Jan 20, 2024]
2. Hematocrit: MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia [accessed on Jan 20, 2024]
3. Hematrocit Blood Test - Testing.com. Sep 13, 2022 [accessed on Jan 20, 2024]

Normal reference ranges can vary depending on the laboratory and the method used for testing. You must use the range supplied by the laboratory that performed your test to evaluate whether your results are "within normal limits."

Additional Materials (30)

This browser does not support the video element.

Complete Blood Count, and Baselining Your Health

Video Topics : Our lifeblood consists of many components and a complete blood count (CBC) includes measurements of the fundamental elements. The largest categories are red and white blood cells (RBCs and WBCs) and cell fragments called platelets, which play roles in blood clotting. There are 20-30 trillion red blood cells in the body of an adult, each with a lifespan of about 100 days (RBCs contain an iron-containing protein called hemoglobin that enables them to carry oxygen to tissues throughout the body and then return carbon dioxide to the lungs). WBCs are in the front lines in the body's ongoing fight against harmful viruses, bacteria and even fungus; when a pathogen enters the body, WBCs mobilize in a coordinated defense response to eliminate, neutralize or mark the invader for destruction. The liquid portion of blood is called plasma and it carries nutrients, electrolytes, waste products, and hormones.

Video by TheVisualMD

Vial of Centrifuged Blood

Blood is made up of red and white blood cell (as well as platelets), suspended in a liquid known as blood plasma. Plasma, which makes up 55% of our blood's volume, is a clear liquid (mainly water) that transports food molecules, hormones, waste as well as a wide range of dissolved chemicals. Red cells, which normally make up 40-50% of total blood volume, are produced continuously in our bone marrow at the rate of about 2-3 million cells per second. White cells make up a very small part of blood's volume-normally only about 1% in healthy people. This image shows two vials of centrifuged blood. The left vial shows healthy amount of red blood cells in female (36-44%) ; The right vial shows healthy amount of red blood cells in male (41-50%). The hematocrit (along with the hemoglobin test) is the central test to diagnosing anemia in that it indicates the amount of RBCs in the blood.

Image by TheVisualMD

Red Blood Cells, Bone Marrow

A skeleton may have a dry and lifeless Halloween image, but bone is actually dynamic, living tissue. Bone is not uniformly solid; within its interior is a network of cavities that house blood vessels and marrow. Bone marrow, particularly in larger bones, is where stem cells give rise to red blood cells (erythrocytes) as well as white blood cells (leukocytes) and blood clotting agents (platelets). As the source of blood cells, the bone marrow is critical to health. Disease or damage to bone marrow can result in either too many or too few blood cells.

Image by TheVisualMD

Anemia: Basic lab tests - hematocrit, hemoglobin, reticulocyte, MCV, morphology

Video by retic20/YouTube

Hematocrit Nursing Considerations, Normal Range, Nursing Care, Lab Values Nursing

Video by NURSINGcom/YouTube

Hematocrit, Dehydration

Blood is composed of cells (primarily red blood cells, but also white blood cells and cell fragments called platelets) along with a liquid portion known as plasma. The ratio of the volume of red blood cells to the volume of plasma is an important health indicator and is known as the hematocrit. The most common cause of a high hematocrit is dehydration, which is usually temporary and easily remedied by increasing fluid intake, thereby restores the balance between RBCs and blood plasma volume.

Image by TheVisualMD

Hematocrit, Anemia

Blood is composed of cells (primarily red blood cells, but also white blood cells and cell fragments called platelets) along with a liquid portion known as plasma. The ratio of the volume of red blood cells to the volume of plasma is an important health indicator and is known as the hematocrit. A low hematocrit usually indicates anemia, which occurs when red blood cells are being either destroyed too quickly or produced too slowly; with fewer red blood cells, less oxygen is delivered to body tissues.

Image by TheVisualMD

Vial of Blood for Hematocrit Test

This image is a vial of blood that has been centrifuged (and thus separated) to determine hematocrit. This vial shows, from top to bottom, 55% plasma, <1% white blood cells, <1% platelets , 45% red blood cells. Hematocrit measures how much of the blood, by volume, is taken up by RBCs. A normal range for hematocrit is 41 to 50 percent in men and 36 to 44 percent in women. In many cases, a reading below the normal range for hematocrit will lead to a diagnosis of CKD-related anemia.This other diagnostic test is the hemoglobin test, which measures the amount of hemoglobin molecules in the blood and is a good indicator of the body's ability to carry oxygen throughout the body.

Image by TheVisualMD

Hematocrit: Bone Marrow

Bone marrow produces about 2 million red blood cells (RBCs) a second to maintain a healthy hematocrit. Many conditions, including kidney disease, chemotherapy, and dietary deficiencies, can reduce RBC production, while others can result in too many RBCs.

Image by TheVisualMD

Hematocrit: Blood Cells

The hematocrit is another way to look at the health of red blood cells (RBCs). Blood is composed of cells (primarily RBCs) and a liquid portion called plasma. The proportions of RBCs and plasma must be kept in balance and this is what the hematocrit measures.

Image by TheVisualMD

Blood

Components of Blood : Blood is mostly made up of plasma and red and white blood cells. But it also contains many other substances as well, like platelets, hormones, nutrients such as glucose, and fats like cholesterol. Blood is the fluid of life, transporting oxygen from the lungs to body tissue and carbon dioxide from body tissue to the lungs.

Image by TheVisualMD

Hematocrit

Hematocrit Blood Vials : If you are at risk for cardiovascular disease, your doctor may order a cholesterol and triglyceride level test as well as a complete blood count (CBC). Abnormal results may be the first clue in determining risk of and in diagnosing cardiovascular disease.

Image by TheVisualMD

Blood Smear Showing Reduced Red Blood Cell Count

Individual blood cells were first detected and described in the 17th century. Later, red blood cells (RBCs) were counted manually from a blood smear, a thin film of blood prepared on a glass slide and examined under a microscope (blood analysis is now automated, though smears are still used to detect visible abnormalities and to check or confirm the results of other tests). Anemia results when there are too few RBCs in circulation because they are being destroyed too quickly or produced too slowly. Anemia can be temporary or long term and range from mild to severe. Folate (also known as vitamin B9) is necessary for red blood cell production and the prevention of anemia, as well as the metabolism of carbohydrates. But folate also plays key roles in the synthesis and maintenance of DNA and is especially important in cell division and growth in fetal development (deficiencies of the vitamin in pregnancy is a common cause of birth defects). Pernicious anemia is a disorder in which the body's loses its ability to utilize folate and vitamin B12.

Image by TheVisualMD

Blood Smear Showing Normal Red Blood Cell Count

Individual blood cells were first detected and described in the 17th century. Later, red blood cells were counted manually from a blood smear, a thin film of blood prepared on a glass slide and examined under a microscope. Blood analysis is now automated, though blood smears are still used to detect visible abnormalities and to check or confirm the results of other tests. There are normally between 4.2-5.8 million red blood cells per microliter (about a drop), which means there are 20-30 trillion red blood cells circulating through the body of an adult.

Image by TheVisualMD

This browser does not support the video element.

Red Blood Cells Carry Oxygen

This video focuses on one of the main components of blood, the red blood cell and its function to carry oxygen. The video begins with revealing the red blood cells and the heart that pumps the oxygenated blood to the rest of the body. Hemoglobin is the protein molecule found in these red blood cells that enable blood to transport oxygen. If the blood's capacity to transport oxygen to the tissues is reduced due to a decrease in the number of red blood cells, anemia may occur.

Video by TheVisualMD

Components of Blood

Components of Blood : Our blood is composed of many different components, the largest categories being red and white blood cells (blood-clotting platelets are another key component) and the liquid portion known as blood plasma. A Complete Blood Count (CBC) includes several of the most basic, yet important, measurements of these components.

Image by TheVisualMD

Blood and Related Conditions

Blood and Related Conditions : Anemia results when there are too few red blood cells circulating in the bloodstream to deliver adequate oxygen to body tissues. There are different types and causes of anemia, including malnutrition, chronic bleeding, and diseases that result in red blood cells either being destroyed too quickly or produced too slowly.

Image by TheVisualMD

Pellet of Lymphocyte Cells Created in the Centrifuge

This photograph shows Wendy Watford, Ph.D. holding a test tube containing isolated lymphocyte cells. The cells were spun in a centrifuge to create a pellet at the bottom of the test tube. The cells will be labeled with CFSE dye, which will stain the membranes of the cells. After culturing the cells for three days she will determine the number of cell divisions that have taken place by measuring the dilution of the CFSE dye. The purpose of the work is to measure the proliferation of lymphocytes under various conditions. The principal investigator for this work is John J. O’Shea, M.D., NIAMS Scientific Director.

Image by NIAMS/Photographer: Rhoda Baer

Red Blood Cells

Digital holographic microscopy (DHM) image of red blood cells.

Image by Egelberg (talk)

Test Tube

Between 5,000 and 8,000 blood serum, fecal, urine, viral and respiratory samples arrive six days a week from U.S. Air Force hospitals and clinics worldwide, as well as some other Department of Defense facilities, for analysis at the Epidemiology Laboratory Service, also known as the "Epi Lab" at the 711th Human Performance Wing’s United States Air Force School of Aerospace Medicine and Public Health at Wright Patterson AFB, Ohio.The lab is a Department of Defense reference laboratory offering clinical diagnostic, public health, and force health screening and testing. (U.S. Air Force photo by J.M. Eddins Jr.)

Image by U.S. Air Force photo by J.M. Eddins Jr.

Phlebotomy

This image was uploaded as part of Wiki Loves e-textbooks contest in Poland.

Image by Sean Michael Ragan

Red Blood Cells Carry Oxygen

This video focuses on one of the main components of blood, the red blood cell and its function to carry oxygen. The video begins with revealing the red blood cells and the heart that pumps the oxygenated blood to the rest of the body. Hemoglobin is the protein molecule found in these red blood cells that enable blood to transport oxygen. If the blood's capacity to transport oxygen to the tissues is reduced due to a decrease in the number of red blood cells, anemia may occur.

Image by TheVisualMD

Composition of Blood

Composition of Blood

Image by OpenStax College

Hematology | Hematocrit

Video by Ninja Nerd/YouTube

Erythrocyte indices (Hemoglobin, Hematocrit, MCV, MCH & MCHC) What Do These Lab Tests Mean?

Video by Medicosis Perfectionalis/YouTube

How to Interpret RBC Indices (e.g. hemoglobin vs. hematocrit, MCV, RDW)

Video by Strong Medicine/YouTube

Haematocrit or PCV

Video by LabsforLifeProject/YouTube

Packed cell volume/ Hematocrit

Video by Pathology Simplified/YouTube

Fetal hemoglobin and hematocrit | Human anatomy and physiology | Health & Medicine | Khan Academy

Video by khanacademymedicine/YouTube

Smoking, Hematocrit, & Fasting Erythropoietin Concentrations

Video by Mayo Proceedings/YouTube

2:12

Complete Blood Count, and Baselining Your Health

TheVisualMD

Vial of Centrifuged Blood

TheVisualMD

Red Blood Cells, Bone Marrow

TheVisualMD

4:32

Anemia: Basic lab tests - hematocrit, hemoglobin, reticulocyte, MCV, morphology

retic20/YouTube

4:40

Hematocrit Nursing Considerations, Normal Range, Nursing Care, Lab Values Nursing

NURSINGcom/YouTube

Hematocrit, Dehydration

TheVisualMD

Hematocrit, Anemia

TheVisualMD

Vial of Blood for Hematocrit Test

TheVisualMD

Hematocrit: Bone Marrow

TheVisualMD

Hematocrit: Blood Cells

TheVisualMD

Blood

TheVisualMD

Hematocrit

TheVisualMD

Blood Smear Showing Reduced Red Blood Cell Count

TheVisualMD

Blood Smear Showing Normal Red Blood Cell Count

TheVisualMD

0:53

Red Blood Cells Carry Oxygen

TheVisualMD

Components of Blood

TheVisualMD

Blood and Related Conditions

TheVisualMD

Pellet of Lymphocyte Cells Created in the Centrifuge

NIAMS/Photographer: Rhoda Baer

Red Blood Cells

Egelberg (talk)

Test Tube

U.S. Air Force photo by J.M. Eddins Jr.

Phlebotomy

Sean Michael Ragan

Red Blood Cells Carry Oxygen

TheVisualMD

Composition of Blood

OpenStax College

10:46

Hematology | Hematocrit

Ninja Nerd/YouTube

8:32

Erythrocyte indices (Hemoglobin, Hematocrit, MCV, MCH & MCHC) What Do These Lab Tests Mean?

Medicosis Perfectionalis/YouTube

7:06

How to Interpret RBC Indices (e.g. hemoglobin vs. hematocrit, MCV, RDW)

Strong Medicine/YouTube

6:14

Haematocrit or PCV

LabsforLifeProject/YouTube

9:16

Packed cell volume/ Hematocrit

Pathology Simplified/YouTube

14:32

Fetal hemoglobin and hematocrit | Human anatomy and physiology | Health & Medicine | Khan Academy

khanacademymedicine/YouTube

6:19

Smoking, Hematocrit, & Fasting Erythropoietin Concentrations

Mayo Proceedings/YouTube

Blood Smear

Blood Smear

Also called: Peripheral Blood Smear, PBS, Blood Film, Manual Differential, Differential Slide, Blood Cell Morphology, Blood Smear Analysis

A blood smear examines the size, shape, and number of blood cells in a sample of your blood. A blood smear can also detect parasites in your blood. A blood smear may be used to help diagnose and monitor many conditions.

Blood Smear

Also called: Peripheral Blood Smear, PBS, Blood Film, Manual Differential, Differential Slide, Blood Cell Morphology, Blood Smear Analysis

A blood smear examines the size, shape, and number of blood cells in a sample of your blood. A blood smear can also detect parasites in your blood. A blood smear may be used to help diagnose and monitor many conditions.

A blood smear is a sample of blood that's spread on a glass slide which is treated with a special stain. In the past, all blood smears were examined under a microscope by laboratory professionals. Now automated digital systems may be used to help examine blood smears.
The purpose of examining a blood smear is to check the size, shape, and number of three types of blood cells:
- Red blood cells, which carry oxygen from your lungs to the rest of your body
- White blood cells, which fight infection
- Platelets, which help your blood to clot
Other names: peripheral smear, peripheral blood film, smear, blood film, manual differential, differential slide, blood cell morphology, blood smear analysis
You may need a blood smear if you have abnormal results on a complete blood count (CBC). A CBC is a routine test that measures many different parts of your blood.
Your health care provider may order a blood smear if you have symptoms of a blood disorder, such as:
- Fatigue
- Jaundice, a condition that causes your skin and eyes to turn yellow
- Unusual bleeding, including nosebleeds
- Fever that lasts, or comes and goes
- Bone pain
- Anemia
- Easy bruising
- A spleen that's larger than normal
The results of a blood smear alone usually can't diagnose a medical condition. Your provider will use your results combined with your medical history, symptoms, and other test results to make a diagnosis.
Your blood smear results usually describe the appearance and number of your red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. Your results will describe anything unusual about your blood.
Red blood cell results that aren't normal, it may be a sign of:
- Anemia
- Sickle cell anemia
- Hemolytic anemia, a type of anemia in which the body destroys red blood cells faster than they are replaced
- Thalassemia
- Bone marrow disorders
- Liver disease
- Cancer that has spread to the bone
White blood cell results that aren't normal may be a sign of:
- Infection or inflammation
- Allergies
- Leukemia
- Bone marrow disorders
Platelet results that aren't normal may be a sign of:
- Thrombocytopenia, a condition in which your blood doesn't have enough platelets, which increases the risk of bleeding
- Inherited platelet disorders (uncommon), such as Bernard-Soulier syndrome
If you have been very ill or stressed, or you have had a blood transfusion, the shape and number of your blood cells may be different than usual. So, a blood smear may not provide enough information for your provider to make a diagnosis. If any of your blood smear results are not normal, your provider will likely order more tests. Talk with your provider to learn more about your results.
A blood smear may be used to help find certain types of parasites in your blood which cause diseases, such as:
- Malaria, spread by bites from infected mosquitos
- Babesiosis, spread mainly by bites from infected ticks
- Chagas disease, spread mainly by bites from "kissing bugs" (triatomine)
Your provider may order the test if you live in or travel to areas where you might have been infected, and you have symptoms. Symptoms depend on the type of parasite. Common symptoms may include fever, fatigue, body aches, rash, and problems with digestion.
1. Blood Smear: MedlinePlus Medical Test [accessed on Jan 22, 2024]
2. Blood smear: MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia [accessed on Jan 22, 2024]
3. Blood Smear - Understand the Test. Testing.com. Sep 13, 2022 [accessed on Jan 22, 2024]
4. Blood Smear - Health Encyclopedia - University of Rochester Medical Center [accessed on Jan 22, 2024]
5. Edward C. Lynch. Peripheral Blood Smear. Butterworths. Jan 22, 1990 [accessed on Jan 22, 2024]
6. B. T. Constantino. Reporting and grading of abnormal red blood cell morphology. https://doi.org/10.1111/ijlh.12215 [accessed on Jan 22, 2024]

Additional Materials (9)

Red Blood Cells, Blood Smear

Individual blood cells were first detected and described in 17th century. Later, red blood cells were counted manually from a blood smear, a thin film of blood prepared on a glass slide and examined under a microscope. Blood analysis is now automated, though blood smears are still used to detect visible abnormalities. There are normally between 4.2-5.8 million red blood cells per microliter (about a drop), which means there are 20-30 trillion red blood cells circulating through the body of an adult.

Image by TheVisualMD

Blood smear (stained and unstained)

Two peripheral blood smears suitable for characterization of cellular elements. Left smear is unstained, right smear is stained with Wright-Giemsa stain.

Image by Coinmac/Wikimedia

Document by Office on Women's Health, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services

How Blood Clots Form

Video by Vascular Cures/YouTube

Platelet Activation and Factors for Clot Formation

Video by Thrombosis Adviser/YouTube

How dangerous are blood clots?

Video by CNN/YouTube

Immune System - Natural Killer Cell

Video by Kyle Thornthwaite/YouTube

Why do blood types matter? - Natalie S. Hodge

Video by TED-Ed/YouTube

Sickle cell anaemia | NHS

Video by NHS/YouTube

Red Blood Cells, Blood Smear

TheVisualMD

Blood smear (stained and unstained)

Coinmac/Wikimedia

Office on Women's Health, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services

3:56

How Blood Clots Form

Vascular Cures/YouTube

2:08

Platelet Activation and Factors for Clot Formation

Thrombosis Adviser/YouTube

1:27

How dangerous are blood clots?

CNN/YouTube

3:02

Immune System - Natural Killer Cell

Kyle Thornthwaite/YouTube

4:42

Why do blood types matter? - Natalie S. Hodge

TED-Ed/YouTube

4:40

Sickle cell anaemia | NHS

NHS/YouTube

Blood Differential Test

Blood Differential Test

Also called: White Blood Cell Differential, WBC Differential, Leukocyte Differential Count, Differential Blood Count

A blood differential test measures the different types of white blood cells in a sample of your blood: neutrophils, lymphocytes, monocytes, eosinophils, and basophils. The test helps diagnose infections, inflammation, immune diseases, cancer and other disorders.

Blood Differential Test

Also called: White Blood Cell Differential, WBC Differential, Leukocyte Differential Count, Differential Blood Count

A blood differential test measures the different types of white blood cells in a sample of your blood: neutrophils, lymphocytes, monocytes, eosinophils, and basophils. The test helps diagnose infections, inflammation, immune diseases, cancer and other disorders.

A blood differential test measures the amount of each type of white blood cell (WBC) that you have in your body. White blood cells (leukocytes) are part of your immune system, a network of cells, tissues, and organs that work together to protect you from infection. There are five different types of white blood cells:
- Neutrophils are the most common type of white blood cell. They are your body's main defense against infection when bacteria, viruses, or other germs enter your body.
- Lymphocytes include two main types of white blood cells: B cells and T cells. B cells fight off invading viruses, bacteria, or toxins. Certain T cells can target and destroy your body's own cells, such as cancer cells and cells that have been infected by viruses.
- Monocytes kill bacteria, viruses, and other germs that may make you sick. They also boost your body's immune response and clear away dead cells.
- Eosinophils defend against parasites and infections. They are also involved in allergies and help control inflammation (swelling and redness).
- Basophils release enzymes during allergic reactions and asthma attacks.
However, your test results may have more than five numbers. For example, the lab may list the results as counts as well as percentages.
Other names for a blood differential test: Complete blood count (CBC) with differential, Differential, White blood cell differential count, Leukocyte differential count
A blood differential test is often part of a general physical exam. Because the five types of white blood cell do different jobs, measuring them separately can give your health care provider important information about your health.
The test can also help diagnose a variety of medical conditions, such as:
- Infections
- Autoimmune diseases
- Inflammatory diseases
- Leukemia and other types of cancer
A blood differential test is used for many reasons. Your provider may have ordered the test to:
- Monitor your overall health or as part of a routine checkup.
- Diagnose a medical condition when you have symptoms. For example, if you are feeling unusually tired or weak, or have unexplained bruising or other symptoms, this test may help uncover the cause.
- Keep track of an existing blood disorder or related condition.
1. Blood Differential: MedlinePlus Medical Test [accessed on Jan 20, 2024]
2. Blood differential test: MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia [accessed on Jan 20, 2024]

Additional Materials (1)

White blood cells

White blood cells (also called leukocytes) are in the front lines in the fight against harmful viruses, bacteria, and fungi. The white blood cell (WBC) count measures the total number of white blood cells per microliter (about a drop); a WBC count also indicates the relative numbers of each type of white blood cell present. There are many specific types of WBCs, grouped into five main categories: neutrophils (normally the most abundant), eosinophils, basophils, lymphocytes and monocytes (which give rise to macrophages, which can ingest foreign particles, including pathogens, in a process called phagocytosis).

Image by TheVisualMD

White blood cells

TheVisualMD

Neutrophils

Neutrophil Count

Also called: Neutrophils (Complete Blood Count), Neutrophils, Neutropenia Test, Neutrophilia Test

This test measures the amount of neutrophils in a sample of your blood. Neutrophils are the most common type of white blood cell. They are your body's main defense against infection when bacteria, viruses, or other germs enter your body. An abnormal level of neutrophils circulating in the blood could indicate a number of health issues.

Neutrophil Count

Also called: Neutrophils (Complete Blood Count), Neutrophils, Neutropenia Test, Neutrophilia Test

This test measures the amount of neutrophils in a sample of your blood. Neutrophils are the most common type of white blood cell. They are your body's main defense against infection when bacteria, viruses, or other germs enter your body. An abnormal level of neutrophils circulating in the blood could indicate a number of health issues.

{"label":"Neutrophils reference range","scale":"lin","step":0.1,"hideunits":false,"items":[{"flag":"abnormal","label":{"short":"Low","long":"Low","orientation":"horizontal"},"values":{"min":0,"max":40},"text":"Having a low percentage of neutrophils in your blood is called neutropenia. It is most often associated with medications but it also can be a sign of other factors or illness.","conditions":["Aplastic anemia","Chemotherapy","Influenza (flu)","Radiation therapy or exposure","Viral infection","Widespread severe bacterial infection"]},{"flag":"normal","label":{"short":"Normal","long":"Normal","orientation":"horizontal"},"values":{"min":40,"max":60},"text":"About 40 to 60 percent of all white blood cells are neutrophils.","conditions":[]},{"flag":"abnormal","label":{"short":"High","long":"High","orientation":"horizontal"},"values":{"min":60,"max":100},"text":"Having a high percentage of neutrophils in your blood is called neutrophilia. This is usually a sign of infection.","conditions":["Acute infection","Acute stress","Eclampsia","Gout","Acute or chronic forms of leukemia","Myeloproliferative diseases","Rheumatoid arthritis","Rheumatic fever","Thyroiditis","Trauma","Cigarette smoking"]}],"units":[{"printSymbol":"%","code":"%","name":"percent"}],"value":50,"disclaimer":"Normal reference ranges can vary depending on the laboratory and the method used for testing. You must use the range supplied by the laboratory that performed your test to evaluate whether your results are \"within normal limits.\""}[{"abnormal":0},{"normal":0},{"abnormal":0}]
Use the slider below to see how your results affect your health.
%
40
60
Your result is Normal.
About 40 to 60 percent of all white blood cells are neutrophils.
Related conditions
{"label":"Neutrophil count reference range","scale":"lin","step":0.1,"hideunits":false,"items":[{"flag":"abnormal","label":{"short":"Low","long":"Low","orientation":"horizontal"},"values":{"min":0,"max":1.8},"text":"Having a low count of neutrophils in your blood is called neutropenia. It is most often associated with medications but it also can be a sign of other factors or illness.","conditions":["Aplastic anemia","Chemotherapy","Influenza (flu)","Radiation therapy or exposure","Viral infection","Widespread severe bacterial infection"]},{"flag":"normal","label":{"short":"Normal","long":"Normal","orientation":"horizontal"},"values":{"min":1.8,"max":7.8},"text":"About 40 to 60 percent of all white blood cells are neutrophils. A normal neutrophil count for adults usually is between 1,800 and 7,800 neutrophils per microliter of blood.","conditions":[]},{"flag":"abnormal","label":{"short":"High","long":"High","orientation":"horizontal"},"values":{"min":7.8,"max":20},"text":"Having a high count of neutrophils in your blood is called neutrophilia. This is usually a sign of infection.","conditions":["Acute infection","Acute stress","Eclampsia","Gout","Acute or chronic forms of leukemia","Myeloproliferative diseases","Rheumatoid arthritis","Rheumatic fever","Thyroiditis","Trauma","Cigarette smoking"]}],"units":[{"printSymbol":"(10³)\/\u03bcL","code":"10*3\/uL","name":"thousand per microliter"}],"value":4.8,"disclaimer":"Normal reference ranges can vary depending on the laboratory and the method used for testing. You must use the range supplied by the laboratory that performed your test to evaluate whether your results are \"within normal limits.\""}[{"abnormal":0},{"normal":0},{"abnormal":0}]
Use the slider below to see how your results affect your health.
(10³)/μL
1.8
7.8
Your result is Normal.
About 40 to 60 percent of all white blood cells are neutrophils. A normal neutrophil count for adults usually is between 1,800 and 7,800 neutrophils per microliter of blood.
Related conditions
The number of neutrophils in your blood is measured as part of a blood differential test.
A blood differential test is often part of a general physical exam. Because the different types of white blood cell do different jobs, measuring them separately can give your health care provider important information about your health.
The test can also help diagnose a variety of medical conditions, such as:
- Infections
- Autoimmune diseases
- Inflammatory diseases
- Leukemia and other types of cancer
The results can be expressed as a percentage (of the total number of all white blood cells) or as an absolute value.
An increased neutrophil number in your blood, a condition called neutrophilia or neutrophilic leukocytosis, is usually the result of:
- Acute infections, primarily by bacteria, less frequently by viruses or fungi.
- Tissue inflammation, such as in inflammatory bowel disease or rheumatoid arthritis.
- Tissue death (necrosis), caused either by trauma, heart attack, burns, or major surgery.
- Blood cancer (leukemia).
- Pregnancy, temporary during the last trimester or labor.
- Severe stress.
- Strenuous physical exercise.
A low neutrophil count in your blood, a condition called neutropenia, may be a consequence of:
- Chemotherapy during cancer treatment.
- Overwhelming infection (sepsis).
- Negative reaction to some drugs.
- Aplastic anemia (a condition where the body stops producing enough new blood cells).
- Myelodysplastic syndrome (the bone marrow produce poorly formed blood cells or cells that don't work properly).
A small percentage of band-form neutrophils is normal in the blood. However, an increased count of these cells (bandemia) is referred to as “left shift” and can be caused by acute infection (sepsis) or inflammation (acute appendicitis or cholecystitis).
1. Blood Differential: MedlinePlus Medical Test [accessed on Jan 22, 2024]
2. Blood differential test: MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia [accessed on Jan 22, 2024]
3. White Blood Cell (WBC) Differential - Testing.com. Aug 7, 2022 [accessed on Jan 22, 2024]
4. DALE.DAVID. Neutropenia - Blood Disorders - MSD Manual Consumer Version [accessed on Jan 22, 2024]
5. DALE.DAVID. Neutrophilic Leukocytosis - Blood Disorders - MSD Manual Consumer Version [accessed on Jan 22, 2024]
6. Patrick M. Zito. Neutropenia. StatPearls Publishing. Aug 25, 2022 [accessed on Jan 22, 2024]
7. Farah Zahra. Neutrophilia. StatPearls Publishing. Apr 27, 2023 [accessed on Jan 22, 2024]
8. Complete Blood count with Differential [accessed on Jan 22, 2024]

Normal reference ranges can vary depending on the laboratory and the method used for testing. You must use the range supplied by the laboratory that performed your test to evaluate whether your results are "within normal limits."

Additional Materials (20)

Neutrophil granulocyte

Neutrophil granulocytes (also known as neutrophils) : Neutrophils with a segmented nuclei surrounded byerythrocytes, the intra-cellular granules are visible in the cytoplasm

Neutrophil

Neutrophil function, relationship to disease, and location in the human body. Credit: NIAID

Image by NIAID

Klebsiella pneumoniae Bacteria

Produced by the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID), this digitally colorized scanning electron microscopic (SEM) image, depicts a blue-colored, human white blood cell, (WBC) known specifically as a neutrophil, interacting with two pink-colored, rod shaped, multidrug-resistant (MDR), Klebsiella pneumoniae bacteria, which are known to cause severe hospital acquired, nosocomial infections.

Image by David Dorward; Ph.D.; National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID)

White Blood Cell and Red Blood Cell

Medical visualization of blood cells. Depicted are numerous red blood cells and a single white blood cell.

Image by TheVisualMD

Hematopoeisis Diagram

Many cells can result from one stem cell. Because division can occur at different stages of the cell's development, a single cell has the potential to become eight to 32 RBCs.

Image by TheVisualMD

Neutrophil

The most abundant type of white blood cells. They are normally found in the blood stream however during the acute phase of inflammation, neutraphils leave the vasculature and migrate toward the site of inflammation in a process called chemotaxis.

Image by TheVisualMD

Anthrax - How People Are Infected?

Neutrophil engulfing anthrax bacteria : Neutrophil (yellow) engulfing anthrax bacteria (orange), taken with a Leo 1550 scanning electron microscope. Scale bar is 5 micrometers.

Image by Volker Brinkmann

Splenic infarction

Blood smear from an adult female with a myelodysplastic syndrome related to radiotherapy and chemotherapy for Hodgkin disease. A hypogranular neutrophil with a pseudo-Pelger-Huet nucleus is shown. The red blood cells show marked poikilocytosis, in part related to post-splenectomy status. (Wright-Giemsa stain).

Image by The Armed Forces Institute of Pathology (AFIP)

Inflammation

Illustration of the Inflammatory Process

Image by OpenStax College

Bone structure

Anatomy of the bone. The bone is made up of compact bone, spongy bone, and bone marrow. Compact bone makes up the outer layer of the bone. Spongy bone is found mostly at the ends of bones and contains red marrow. Bone marrow is found in the center of most bones and has many blood vessels. There are two types of bone marrow: red and yellow. Red marrow contains blood stem cells that can become red blood cells, white blood cells, or platelets. Yellow marrow is made mostly of fat.

Image by Smart Servier website

Neutrophil

Image by BruceBlaus

Cell line plasma cells

Diagram showing the cell line plasma cells

Image by Cancer Research UK uploader

Neutrophils and How White Blood Cells Work

Video by TheCancer Immunity/YouTube

Extravasation of Neutrophils

Video by Katie Bergdale/YouTube

high white blood cell count Video

Video by itbestshop/YouTube

Learning to Decode Your Blood Test Results for Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia (CLL)

Video by CLL Society/YouTube

Immune- Documentary - Part 4 - Neutrophils

Video by Rajesh kumar/YouTube

Neutrophils and Platelets: Why Are They Monitored So Closely?

Video by Patient Power - a Cancer Community/YouTube

Neutropenia - Mayo Clinic

Video by Mayo Clinic/YouTube

Neutropenia

Blood film with a striking absence of neutrophils, leaving only red blood cells and platelets

Image by Roberto J. Galindo

Neutrophil granulocyte

Neutrophil

NIAID

Klebsiella pneumoniae Bacteria

David Dorward; Ph.D.; National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID)

White Blood Cell and Red Blood Cell

TheVisualMD

Hematopoeisis Diagram

TheVisualMD

Neutrophil

TheVisualMD

Anthrax - How People Are Infected?

Volker Brinkmann

Splenic infarction

The Armed Forces Institute of Pathology (AFIP)

Inflammation

OpenStax College

Bone structure

Smart Servier website

Neutrophil

BruceBlaus

Cell line plasma cells

Cancer Research UK uploader

2:15

Neutrophils and How White Blood Cells Work

TheCancer Immunity/YouTube

2:27

Extravasation of Neutrophils

Katie Bergdale/YouTube

8:22

high white blood cell count Video

itbestshop/YouTube

1:17:17

Learning to Decode Your Blood Test Results for Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia (CLL)

CLL Society/YouTube

1:58

Immune- Documentary - Part 4 - Neutrophils

Rajesh kumar/YouTube

3:37

Neutrophils and Platelets: Why Are They Monitored So Closely?

Patient Power - a Cancer Community/YouTube

6:37

Neutropenia - Mayo Clinic

Mayo Clinic/YouTube

Neutropenia

Roberto J. Galindo

Lymphocytes

Lymphocyte Count

Also called: Lymphocytes (Complete Blood Count), Lymphocytes, Lymphs, Lymphocytosis Test, Lymphocytopenia Test

This test measures the amount of lymphocytes in a sample of your blood. A lymphocyte is a type of white blood cell that is part of the immune system. It defends the body against infection, disease, and altered (mutated) cells. An abnormal level of lymphocytes circulating in the blood could indicate a number of health issues.

Lymphocyte Count

Also called: Lymphocytes (Complete Blood Count), Lymphocytes, Lymphs, Lymphocytosis Test, Lymphocytopenia Test

This test measures the amount of lymphocytes in a sample of your blood. A lymphocyte is a type of white blood cell that is part of the immune system. It defends the body against infection, disease, and altered (mutated) cells. An abnormal level of lymphocytes circulating in the blood could indicate a number of health issues.

{"label":"Lymphocytes reference range","scale":"lin","step":0.1,"hideunits":false,"items":[{"flag":"abnormal","label":{"short":"Low","long":"Low","orientation":"horizontal"},"values":{"min":0,"max":20},"text":"A lower-than-normal lymphocyte count, called lymphopenia or lymphocytopenia, can occur after a cold or another infection or can be caused by intense physical exercise, severe stress, or malnutrition. It can also indicate a more serious condition.","conditions":["Chemotherapy","HIV\/AIDS infection","Leukemia","Radiation therapy or exposure","Sepsis","Steroid use"]},{"flag":"normal","label":{"short":"Normal","long":"Normal","orientation":"horizontal"},"values":{"min":20,"max":40},"text":"About 20 to 40 percent of all white blood cells are lymphocytes.","conditions":[]},{"flag":"abnormal","label":{"short":"High","long":"High","orientation":"horizontal"},"values":{"min":40,"max":90},"text":"A higher-than-normal lymphocyte count, called lymphocytosis, may be temporary due to the body's immune response to an infection or inflammatory condition. It can also indicate a more serious condition.","conditions":["Chronic bacterial infection","Infectious hepatitis","Infectious mononucleosis","Lymphocytic leukemia","Multiple myeloma","Viral infection (such as mumps or measles)"]}],"units":[{"printSymbol":"%{WBCs}","code":"%{WBCs}","name":"percent of white blood cells"}],"value":30,"disclaimer":"Normal reference ranges can vary depending on the laboratory and the method used for testing. You must use the range supplied by the laboratory that performed your test to evaluate whether your results are \"within normal limits.\""}[{"abnormal":0},{"normal":0},{"abnormal":0}]
Use the slider below to see how your results affect your health.
%{WBCs}
20
40
Your result is Normal.
About 20 to 40 percent of all white blood cells are lymphocytes.
Related conditions
{"label":"Lymphocyte count reference range","scale":"lin","step":0.1,"hideunits":false,"items":[{"flag":"abnormal","label":{"short":"Low","long":"Low","orientation":"horizontal"},"values":{"min":0,"max":1},"text":"A lower-than-normal lymphocyte count, called lymphopenia or lymphocytopenia, can occur after a cold or another infection or can be caused by intense physical exercise, severe stress, or malnutrition. It can also indicate a more serious condition.","conditions":["Chemotherapy","HIV\/AIDS infection","Leukemia","Radiation therapy or exposure","Sepsis","Steroid use"]},{"flag":"normal","label":{"short":"Normal","long":"Normal","orientation":"horizontal"},"values":{"min":1,"max":4.8},"text":"About 20 to 40 percent of all white blood cells are lymphocytes. A normal lymphocyte count for adults usually is between 1,000 and 4,800 lymphocytes per microliter of blood.","conditions":[]},{"flag":"abnormal","label":{"short":"High","long":"High","orientation":"horizontal"},"values":{"min":4.8,"max":10},"text":"A higher-than-normal lymphocyte count, called lymphocytosis, may be temporary due to the body's immune response to an infection or inflammatory condition. It can also indicate a more serious condition.","conditions":["Chronic bacterial infection","Infectious hepatitis","Infectious mononucleosis","Lymphocytic leukemia","Multiple myeloma","Viral infection (such as mumps or measles)"]}],"units":[{"printSymbol":"(10³)\/\u03bcL","code":"10*3\/uL","name":"thousand per microliter"}],"value":2.9,"disclaimer":"Normal reference ranges can vary depending on the laboratory and the method used for testing. You must use the range supplied by the laboratory that performed your test to evaluate whether your results are \"within normal limits.\""}[{"abnormal":0},{"normal":0},{"abnormal":0}]
Use the slider below to see how your results affect your health.
(10³)/μL
1
4.8
Your result is Normal.
About 20 to 40 percent of all white blood cells are lymphocytes. A normal lymphocyte count for adults usually is between 1,000 and 4,800 lymphocytes per microliter of blood.
Related conditions
A lymphocyte is a type of white blood cell that is part of the immune system. There are three types of lymphocytes. All lymphocytes help protect you from infection, but they have different functions.
- B lymphocytes are made in the bone marrow. These cells make antibodies to help you get better when you are sick (humoral immunity). They also may protect you from future illness.
- T lymphocytes develop in the thymus gland, an organ in the chest that is part of the lymphatic system. T cells can kill virus-infected cells or cancer cells and signal other cells to help destroy viruses (cellular immunity). T cells also help B cells form antibodies.
- Natural killer cells, which develop in the bone marrow, thymus, and liver, are immune cells that contain enzymes to kill cancer cells or cells infected with a virus.
Lymphocytes account for about 20% to 40% of all white blood cells in the blood. Lymphocytes are responsible for the astonishing specificity of adaptive immune responses — they usually respond to foreign antigens only if the innate immune system is first activated. The innate immune system is the body's first line of defense against germs entering the body.
The number of lymphocytes in your blood is measured as part of a blood differential test.
A blood differential test is often part of a general physical exam. Because the different types of white blood cell do different jobs, measuring them separately can give your health care provider important information about your health.
The test can also help diagnose a variety of medical conditions, such as:
- Infections
- Autoimmune diseases
- Inflammatory diseases
- Leukemia and other types of cancer
The results can be expressed as a percentage (of the total number of all white blood cells) or as an absolute value.
An increased number of lymphocytes in your blood, a condition called lymphocytosis or lymphocytic leukocytosis, can be the result of:
- Chemotherapy
- Infections, such as mononucleosis
- Cancers, such as lymphoma or leukemia
- Autoimmune disorders, such as Graves disease or Crohn disease
- Radiation therapy or exposure
- Severe sepsis
- Steroid use
A decreased number of lymphocytes in your blood, a condition called lymphocytopenia, can be the result of:
- Infections,such as HIV, viral hepatitis, influenza, COVID-19, tuberculosis, pneumonia, sepsis, or malaria
- Autoimmune disorders, such as lupus or rheumatoid arthritis
- Blood cancer and other blood diseases, such as Hodgkin's disease and aplastic anemia
- Some medical treatments like blood and bone marrow transplant, cancer treatment, steroid therapy, or major surgery
- Drinking too much alcohol or poor nutrition (having a diet without enough protein or other nutrients)
- Certain inherited conditions, such as ataxia telangiectasia or SCID
1. Blood Differential: MedlinePlus Medical Test [accessed on Jan 22, 2024]
2. Lymphopenia - What Is Lymphopenia? | NHLBI, NIH. May 31, 2022 [accessed on Jan 22, 2024]
3. Blood differential test: MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia [accessed on Jan 22, 2024]
4. White Blood Cell (WBC) Differential - Testing.com. Aug 7, 2022 [accessed on Jan 22, 2024]
5. Peter Walter. Lymphocytes and the Cellular Basis of Adaptive Immunity. Garland Science. Jan 22, 2024 [accessed on Jan 22, 2024]
6. DALE.DAVID. Lymphocytic Leukocytosis - Blood Disorders - MSD Manual Consumer Version [accessed on Jan 22, 2024]
7. DALE.DAVID. Lymphocytopenia - Blood Disorders - MSD Manual Consumer Version [accessed on Jan 22, 2024]
8. The innate and adaptive immune systems. Institute for Quality and Efficiency in Health Care (IQWiG). Jul 30, 2020 [accessed on Jan 22, 2024]

Normal reference ranges can vary depending on the laboratory and the method used for testing. You must use the range supplied by the laboratory that performed your test to evaluate whether your results are "within normal limits."

Additional Materials (12)

Lymphocyte migration.

Video by Immunology Toronto/YouTube

Lymphopaenia – What is a safe lymphocyte count? | Prof Gavin Giovannoni, MS Academy #MSCovid19

Video by Neurology Academy/YouTube

Pathway of stem cell differentiation

Pathway of stem cell differentiationFunding from the NIH Office of Research and Structured Programs (ORIP) to the Wisconsin National Primate Research Center to explore stem cell related solutions for Parkinson's disease."

Image by US Gov

Hematopoiesis

Diagram showing the development of different blood cells from haematopoietic stem cell to mature cells

Image by A. Rad

Human B Lymphocyte

B cell function, relationship to disease, and location in the human body.

Image by NIAID

Human B Lymphocyte

Transmission electron micrograph of a B cell from a human donor.

Image by NIAID

Healthy Human T Cell

Scanning electron micrograph of a human T lymphocyte (also called a T cell) from the immune system of a healthy donor.

Image by NIAID

Human B Lymphocyte

Colorized scanning electron micrograph of a B cell from a human donor.

Image by NIAID

T cell

T cell function, relationship to disease, and location in the human body. Credit: NIAID

Image by NIAID

3D illustration of a lymphocyte B cell

Image by Blausen.com staff (2014). "Medical gallery of Blausen Medical 2014". WikiJournal of Medicine 1 (2). DOI:10.15347/wjm/2014.010. ISSN 2002-4436.

Lymphocyte

Electron microscopic image of a single human lymphocyte.

Image by Dr. Triche National Cancer Institute

Lymphatic System

Illustration of the Lymphatic System

Image by OpenStax College

2:32

Lymphocyte migration.

Immunology Toronto/YouTube

1:01:39

Lymphopaenia – What is a safe lymphocyte count? | Prof Gavin Giovannoni, MS Academy #MSCovid19

Neurology Academy/YouTube

Pathway of stem cell differentiation

US Gov

Hematopoiesis

A. Rad

Human B Lymphocyte

NIAID

Human B Lymphocyte

NIAID

Healthy Human T Cell

NIAID

Human B Lymphocyte

NIAID

T cell

NIAID

3D illustration of a lymphocyte B cell

Blausen.com staff (2014). "Medical gallery of Blausen Medical 2014". WikiJournal of Medicine 1 (2). DOI:10.15347/wjm/2014.010. ISSN 2002-4436.

Lymphocyte

Dr. Triche National Cancer Institute

Lymphatic System

OpenStax College

Monocytes

Monocyte Count

Also called: Monocytes (Complete Blood Count), Monocytes, Monocytosis Test, Monocytopenia Test

This test measures the amount of monocytes in a sample of your blood. Monocytes are a type of white blood cell. They help fight off infections and play a role in your body's immune response. An abnormal level of monocytes in the blood could indicate a number of issues, including infection, autoimmune disorder, or certain type of cancer.

Monocyte Count

Also called: Monocytes (Complete Blood Count), Monocytes, Monocytosis Test, Monocytopenia Test

This test measures the amount of monocytes in a sample of your blood. Monocytes are a type of white blood cell. They help fight off infections and play a role in your body's immune response. An abnormal level of monocytes in the blood could indicate a number of issues, including infection, autoimmune disorder, or certain type of cancer.

{"label":"Monocytes reference range","scale":"lin","step":0.1,"hideunits":false,"items":[{"flag":"abnormal","label":{"short":"Low","long":"Low","orientation":"horizontal"},"values":{"min":0,"max":2},"text":"A decreased number of monocytes in your blood (monocytopenia) can occur due to several disorders or diseases. Talk to your doctor to know what your results mean in your specific case.","conditions":["Sepsis","Infections","Bone marrow disorders","Chemotherapy drugs"]},{"flag":"normal","label":{"short":"Normal","long":"Normal","orientation":"horizontal"},"values":{"min":2,"max":8},"text":"About 2 to 8 percent of all white blood cells are monocytes.","conditions":[]},{"flag":"abnormal","label":{"short":"High","long":"High","orientation":"horizontal"},"values":{"min":8,"max":20},"text":"An increased number of monocytes in your blood (monocytosis) can be caused by parasitic infections or other chronic conditions.","conditions":["Chronic inflammatory disease","Leukemia","Parasitic infection","Tuberculosis","Viral infection (for example, infectious mononucleosis, mumps, measles)"]}],"units":[{"printSymbol":"%{WBCs}","code":"%{WBCs}","name":"percent of white blood cells"}],"value":5,"disclaimer":"Normal reference ranges can vary depending on the laboratory and the method used for testing. You must use the range supplied by the laboratory that performed your test to evaluate whether your results are \"within normal limits.\""}[{"abnormal":0},{"normal":0},{"abnormal":0}]
Use the slider below to see how your results affect your health.
%{WBCs}
2
8
Your result is Normal.
About 2 to 8 percent of all white blood cells are monocytes.
Related conditions
{"label":"Monocyte count reference range","scale":"lin","step":0.1,"hideunits":false,"items":[{"flag":"abnormal","label":{"short":"Low","long":"Low","orientation":"horizontal"},"values":{"min":0,"max":0.1},"text":"A decreased number of monocytes in your blood (monocytopenia) can occur due to several disorders or diseases. Talk to your doctor to know what your results mean in your specific case.","conditions":["Sepsis","Infections","Bone marrow disorders","Chemotherapy drugs"]},{"flag":"normal","label":{"short":"Normal","long":"Normal","orientation":"horizontal"},"values":{"min":0.1,"max":0.9},"text":"About 2 to 8 percent of all white blood cells are monocytes. A normal monocyte count for adults usually is between 100 and 900 monocytes per microliter of blood.","conditions":[]},{"flag":"abnormal","label":{"short":"High","long":"High","orientation":"horizontal"},"values":{"min":0.9,"max":2},"text":"An increased number of monocytes in your blood (monocytosis) can be caused by parasitic infections or other chronic conditions.","conditions":["Chronic inflammatory disease","Leukemia","Parasitic infection","Tuberculosis","Viral infection (for example, infectious mononucleosis, mumps, measles)"]}],"units":[{"printSymbol":"(10³)\/\u03bcL","code":"10*3\/uL","name":"thousand per microliter"}],"value":0.5,"disclaimer":"Normal reference ranges can vary depending on the laboratory and the method used for testing. You must use the range supplied by the laboratory that performed your test to evaluate whether your results are \"within normal limits.\""}[{"abnormal":0},{"normal":0},{"abnormal":0}]
Use the slider below to see how your results affect your health.
(10³)/μL
0.1
0.9
Your result is Normal.
About 2 to 8 percent of all white blood cells are monocytes. A normal monocyte count for adults usually is between 100 and 900 monocytes per microliter of blood.
Related conditions
The number of monocytes in your blood is measured as part of a blood differential test.
A blood differential test is often part of a general physical exam. Because the different types of white blood cell do different jobs, measuring them separately can give your health care provider important information about your health.
The test can also help diagnose a variety of medical conditions, such as:
- Infections
- Autoimmune diseases
- Inflammatory diseases
- Leukemia and other types of cancer
The results can be expressed as a percentage (of the total number of all white blood cells) or as an absolute value.
An increased number of monocytes in your blood, a condition called monocytosis, may be due to:
- Chronic inflammatory disease
- Leukemia
- Parasitic infection
- Tuberculosis
- Viral infection (for example, infectious mononucleosis, mumps, or measles)
A decreased number of monocytes in your blood, a condition called monocytopenia, can occur due to severe blood infections (sepsis), bone marrow disorders, or chemotherapy treatment. In some cases, people with human papillomavirus (HPV) infection of the genitals, and people with certain skin infections can also have a low number of monocytes.
1. Blood Differential: MedlinePlus Medical Test [accessed on Jan 22, 2024]
2. Blood differential test: MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia [accessed on Jan 22, 2024]
3. White Blood Cell (WBC) Differential - Testing.com. Aug 7, 2022 [accessed on Jan 22, 2024]
4. DALE.DAVID. Monocyte Disorders - Blood Disorders - MSD Manual Consumer Version [accessed on Jan 22, 2024]
5. Prabhu D. Emmady. Histology, Monocytes. StatPearls Publishing. Apr 24, 2023 [accessed on Jan 22, 2024]

Normal reference ranges can vary depending on the laboratory and the method used for testing. You must use the range supplied by the laboratory that performed your test to evaluate whether your results are "within normal limits."

Additional Materials (17)

White Blood Cells Rotation

This rotational interactive features five white blood cells. At the top left is a neutrophil (purple nucleus); center is a Monocyte-macrophage (orange nucleus); top right is a Lymphocyte (red nucleus); bottom left a Basophil (green nucleus); and bottom right an Eosinophil (yellow nucleus). These molecules are all part of a white blood cell count test. A white blood cell count is an important measure of this key component of the immune system; when the body is under attack, more WBCs are produced. White blood cells (also called leukocytes or WBCs) are in the front lines in the fight against harmful viruses, bacteria and even fungus. A white blood cell count is an important measure of this key component of the immune system; when the body is under attack, more WBCs are produced. Other factors, however, may also affect WBC counts, including allergies, chemotherapy, and other drugs, as well as leukemia.

Image by TheVisualMD

White Blood Cells, Bone Marrow

Bone marrow is constantly producing blood cells, including white blood cells and red blood cells as well platelets, which are cell fragments important for blood clotting. Disease and disorders of the bone marrow can, in turn, affect the production of blood cells. Both cancer and cancer treatment (chemotherapy and radiation) can also have an impact on the bone marrow's ability to produce blood cells.

Image by TheVisualMD

This browser does not support the video element.

Complete Blood Count, and Baselining Your Health

Video Topics : Our lifeblood consists of many components and a complete blood count (CBC) includes measurements of the fundamental elements. The largest categories are red and white blood cells (RBCs and WBCs) and cell fragments called platelets, which play roles in blood clotting. There are 20-30 trillion red blood cells in the body of an adult, each with a lifespan of about 100 days (RBCs contain an iron-containing protein called hemoglobin that enables them to carry oxygen to tissues throughout the body and then return carbon dioxide to the lungs). WBCs are in the front lines in the body's ongoing fight against harmful viruses, bacteria and even fungus; when a pathogen enters the body, WBCs mobilize in a coordinated defense response to eliminate, neutralize or mark the invader for destruction. The liquid portion of blood is called plasma and it carries nutrients, electrolytes, waste products, and hormones.

Video by TheVisualMD

What Does My White Blood Cell Count Tell My Healthcare Team?

Video by Diverse Health Hub/YouTube

The Immune System Explained I – Bacteria Infection

Video by Kurzgesagt – In a Nutshell/YouTube

White Blood Cells

A type of immune cell. Most white blood cells are made in the bone marrow and are found in the blood and lymph tissue. White blood cells help the body fight infections and other diseases. Granulocytes, monocytes, and lymphocytes are white blood cells.

Image by Blausen.com staff (2014). "Medical gallery of Blausen Medical 2014"

Macrophage

Macrophages are mature forms of monocytes. Similar to the monocyte, it protects the body against blood-borne pathogens. They continue to destroy pathogens and cellular debris by ingesting them.

Image by TheVisualMD

Innate immune system

Image by US Gov

Skin After Injury

Basophils, mast cells, and red blood cells are joined within one hour of the injuring by bacteria-eating cells called phagocytes, which include neutrophils and monocytes.

Image by TheVisualMD

Subsiding Inflammation in blood vessels

Monocytes, having matured into macrophages continue to destroy pathogens and cellular debris by ingesting them, while the inflammation process begins to subside.

Image by TheVisualMD

White blood cells

Immune cells surrounding hair follicles in mouse skin. These hair follicles are home to a diverse array of commensal bacteria.

Image by NIAID

White Blood Cells

Immune cells surrounding hair follicles in mouse skin. These hair follicles are home to a diverse array of commensal bacteria.

Image by NIAID

Innate immune system

Illustration of the Innate Immune System responding to injury.

Image by OpenStax College

Bone structure

Anatomy of the bone. The bone is made up of compact bone, spongy bone, and bone marrow. Compact bone makes up the outer layer of the bone. Spongy bone is found mostly at the ends of bones and contains red marrow. Bone marrow is found in the center of most bones and has many blood vessels. There are two types of bone marrow: red and yellow. Red marrow contains blood stem cells that can become red blood cells, white blood cells, or platelets. Yellow marrow is made mostly of fat.

Image by Smart Servier website

White Blood Cells

Title Normal Plasma Blood Cells. Description A normal plasma cell, a type of white blood cell, that helps to protect the body from germs and other harmful substances.

Image by Lydia Kibiuk (Illustrator) / National Cancer Institute

Monocytes

A monocyte is a leukocyte. It protects the body against blood-borne pathogens and moves quickly to sites of infection in the tissues. They are responsible for phagocytosis (ingestion) of foreign substances in the body.

Image by BruceBlaus

Sensitive content

This media may include sensitive content

Blood cells (from left to right: erythrocyte, thrombocyte, leukocyte)

A single drop of blood contains millions of red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. One of each type is shown here, isolated from a scanning electron micrograph.

Image by Electron Microscopy Facility at The National Cancer Institute at Frederick (NCI-Frederick)

White Blood Cells Rotation

TheVisualMD

White Blood Cells, Bone Marrow

TheVisualMD

2:12

Complete Blood Count, and Baselining Your Health

TheVisualMD

5:01

What Does My White Blood Cell Count Tell My Healthcare Team?

Diverse Health Hub/YouTube

6:49

The Immune System Explained I – Bacteria Infection

Kurzgesagt – In a Nutshell/YouTube

White Blood Cells

Blausen.com staff (2014). "Medical gallery of Blausen Medical 2014"

Macrophage

TheVisualMD

Innate immune system

US Gov

Skin After Injury

TheVisualMD

Subsiding Inflammation in blood vessels

TheVisualMD

White blood cells

NIAID

White Blood Cells

NIAID

Innate immune system

OpenStax College

Bone structure

Smart Servier website

White Blood Cells

Lydia Kibiuk (Illustrator) / National Cancer Institute

Monocytes

BruceBlaus

Sensitive content

This media may include sensitive content

Blood cells (from left to right: erythrocyte, thrombocyte, leukocyte)

Electron Microscopy Facility at The National Cancer Institute at Frederick (NCI-Frederick)

Eosinophils

Eosinophil Count

Also called: Eosinophils (Complete Blood Count), Eosinophils, Eosins, Eos, Eosinopenia Test, Eosinophilia Test

This test measures the amount of eosinophils in a sample of your blood. Eosinophils are a type of white blood cell. They help fight off infections and play a role in your body's immune response. An abnormal level of eosinophils in the blood could indicate a number of issues, including infection, allergic reaction, and asthma.

Eosinophil Count

Also called: Eosinophils (Complete Blood Count), Eosinophils, Eosins, Eos, Eosinopenia Test, Eosinophilia Test

This test measures the amount of eosinophils in a sample of your blood. Eosinophils are a type of white blood cell. They help fight off infections and play a role in your body's immune response. An abnormal level of eosinophils in the blood could indicate a number of issues, including infection, allergic reaction, and asthma.

{"label":"Eosinophils reference range","scale":"lin","step":0.01,"hideunits":false,"items":[{"flag":"borderline","label":{"short":"Low","long":"Low","orientation":"horizontal"},"values":{"min":0,"max":1},"text":"Low levels of eosinophils is known as eosinopenia. Unless alcohol abuse or Cushing\u2019s disease is suspected, low levels of eosinophils are not usually of concern unless other white cell counts are also abnormally low.","conditions":["Alcohol intoxication","Severe infections","Sepsis","Hormone-secreting tumors","Cushing\u2019s disease","Use of corticosteroids"]},{"flag":"normal","label":{"short":"Normal","long":"Normal","orientation":"horizontal"},"values":{"min":1,"max":4},"text":"Normally your blood doesn't have a large number of eosinophils, accounting for 1% to 4% of the total circulating white blood cells.","conditions":[]},{"flag":"abnormal","label":{"short":"High","long":"High","orientation":"horizontal"},"values":{"min":4,"max":10},"text":"A high eosinophil count, known as eosinophilia, may indicate an allergic condition or an infection.","conditions":["Addison disease","Allergic reaction","Cancer","Chronic myelogenous leukemia","Collagen vascular disease","Hypereosinophilic syndromes","Parasitic infection"]}],"units":[{"printSymbol":"%{WBCs}","code":"%{WBCs}","name":"percent of white blood cells"}],"value":2.5,"disclaimer":"Normal reference ranges can vary depending on the laboratory and the method used for testing. You must use the range supplied by the laboratory that performed your test to evaluate whether your results are \"within normal limits.\""}[{"borderline":0},{"normal":0},{"abnormal":0}]
Use the slider below to see how your results affect your health.
%{WBCs}
1
4
Your result is Normal.
Normally your blood doesn't have a large number of eosinophils, accounting for 1% to 4% of the total circulating white blood cells.
Related conditions
{"label":"Eosinophil count reference range","scale":"lin","step":0.01,"hideunits":false,"items":[{"flag":"normal","label":{"short":"Normal","long":"Normal","orientation":"horizontal"},"values":{"min":0,"max":0.45},"text":"About 1 to 4 percent of all white blood cells are eosinophils. A normal eosinophil count for adults usually is less than 450 eosinophils per microliter of blood.","conditions":[]},{"flag":"abnormal","label":{"short":" High","long":" High","orientation":"horizontal"},"values":{"min":0.45,"max":1.5},"text":"A high eosinophil count, known as eosinophilia, may indicate an allergic condition or an infection.","conditions":["Addison disease","Allergic reaction","Cancer","Chronic myelogenous leukemia","Collagen vascular disease","Hypereosinophilic syndromes","Parasitic infection"]},{"flag":"abnormal","label":{"short":"Very high","long":"Very high","orientation":"horizontal"},"values":{"min":1.5,"max":10},"text":"A high eosinophil count, known as eosinophilia, may indicate an allergic condition or an infection.","conditions":["Addison disease","Allergic reaction","Cancer","Chronic myelogenous leukemia","Collagen vascular disease","Hypereosinophilic syndromes","Parasitic infection"]}],"units":[{"printSymbol":"(10³)\/\u03bcL","code":"10*3\/uL","name":"thousand per microliter"}],"value":0.23,"disclaimer":"Normal reference ranges can vary depending on the laboratory and the method used for testing. You must use the range supplied by the laboratory that performed your test to evaluate whether your results are \"within normal limits.\""}[{"normal":0},{"abnormal":0},{"abnormal":1}]
Use the slider below to see how your results affect your health.
(10³)/μL
0.45
1.5
Your result is Normal.
About 1 to 4 percent of all white blood cells are eosinophils. A normal eosinophil count for adults usually is less than 450 eosinophils per microliter of blood.
Related conditions
The number of eosinophil in your blood is measured as part of a blood differential test.
A blood differential test is often part of a general physical exam. Because the different types of white blood cell do different jobs, measuring them separately can give your health care provider important information about your health.
The test can also help diagnose a variety of medical conditions, such as:
- Infections
- Autoimmune diseases
- Inflammatory diseases
- Leukemia and other types of cancer
The results can be expressed as a percentage (of the total number of all white blood cells) or as an absolute value.
A higher than normal eosinophil count, known as eosinophilia, is usually due to:
- Addison disease
- Allergies (such as allergic rhinitis, eczema, or atopic dermatitis)
- Asthma
- Parasitic infestation
- Fungus infection
- Leukemia or other blood disorders
- Hypereosinophilic syndrome
A lower than normal eosinophil count, known as eosinopenia, is less frequent and may be the consequence of:
- Alcohol intoxication
- Severe infections (e.g., sepsis)
- Hormone-secreting tumors
- Treatment with drugs known as corticosteroids
Your symptoms may vary depending on the affected organs:
- Skin: you may have a rash.
- Throat: pain or itchiness.
- Eyes: redness, itchiness.
- Lungs: shortness of breath, cough, and wheezing.
- Stomach: pain.
- Intestines: diarrhea.
Nevertheless, a slightly elevated or low eosinophils count does not usually cause any symptoms, and this is an accidental finding when a complete blood count test is done for any other reason.
1. Blood Differential: MedlinePlus Medical Test [accessed on Jan 22, 2024]
2. Eosinophilic Disorders | Eosinophilia | MedlinePlus. National Library of Medicine. Mar 29, 2017 [accessed on Jan 22, 2024]
3. Blood differential test: MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia [accessed on Jan 22, 2024]
4. Differential Blood Count: Reference Range, Interpretation, Collection and Panels. Oct 24, 2023 [accessed on Jan 22, 2024]
5. White Blood Cell (WBC) Differential - Testing.com. Aug 7, 2022 [accessed on Jan 22, 2024]
6. DALE.DAVID. Eosinophilic Disorders - Blood Disorders - Merck Manuals Consumer Version [accessed on Jan 22, 2024]
7. Eosinophil count - absolute: MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia [accessed on Jan 22, 2024]

Normal reference ranges can vary depending on the laboratory and the method used for testing. You must use the range supplied by the laboratory that performed your test to evaluate whether your results are "within normal limits."

Additional Materials (9)

Eosinophilic Disorders... Made simple

Video by MadBlasta/YouTube

Blood Cell Bakery--Eosinophils

Video by sciencegoddess1/YouTube

What Does My White Blood Cell Count Tell My Healthcare Team?

Video by Diverse Health Hub/YouTube

Granulocytes

Diagram showing the cell line plasma cells come from

Image by Cancer Research UK uploader

Granulocytes

Granulocytes can be distinguished by the number of lobes in their nuclei and the staining properties of their granules. (credit “neutrophil” micrograph: modification of work by Ed Uthman)

Image by CNX/OpenStax

Eosinophils

Histological blood smear of an Eosinophil surrounded by Red Blood Cells and Platelets

Image by Iceclanl

Eosinophils

On the left there is a segmented polymorphonuclear neutrophil, on the right and below is one eosinophil leucocyte. For comparison the red blood cell have a diameter of 7-8 micrometers. The picture was taken with a Nikon Eclipse 600 microscope, magnification was 1000x.

Image by Davidcsaba Dr. David Csaba L.

Eosinophils

Eosinophil function, relationship to disease, and location in the human body.

Image by NIAID

Eosinophil

Visualization of a eosinophil. A type of white blood cell responsible for combating infection. They make up 2% of all white blood cells.

Image by TheVisualMD

2:14

Eosinophilic Disorders... Made simple

MadBlasta/YouTube

1:08

Blood Cell Bakery--Eosinophils

sciencegoddess1/YouTube

5:01

What Does My White Blood Cell Count Tell My Healthcare Team?

Diverse Health Hub/YouTube

Granulocytes

Cancer Research UK uploader

Granulocytes

CNX/OpenStax

Eosinophils

Iceclanl

Eosinophils

Davidcsaba Dr. David Csaba L.

Eosinophils

NIAID

Eosinophil

TheVisualMD

Basophils

Basophil Count

Also called: Basophils (Complete Blood Count), Basophils, Basos, Basopenia Test, Basoophilia Test

This test measures the amount of basophils in a sample of your blood. Basophils, a type of white blood cell, release enzymes during allergic reactions and asthma attacks. An abnormal level of basophils circulating in the blood could indicate a number of health issues.

Basophil Count

Also called: Basophils (Complete Blood Count), Basophils, Basos, Basopenia Test, Basoophilia Test

This test measures the amount of basophils in a sample of your blood. Basophils, a type of white blood cell, release enzymes during allergic reactions and asthma attacks. An abnormal level of basophils circulating in the blood could indicate a number of health issues.

{"label":"Basophils reference range","scale":"lin","step":0.01,"hideunits":false,"items":[{"flag":"borderline","label":{"short":"Low","long":"Low","orientation":"horizontal"},"values":{"min":0,"max":0.1},"text":"Abnormally low basophil count is known as basopenia. However, since basophil numbers are normally low in the blood; low basophil count is usually not medically significant.","conditions":["Acute infection","Cancer","Severe injury"]},{"flag":"normal","label":{"short":"Normal","long":"Normal","orientation":"horizontal"},"values":{"min":0.1,"max":1},"text":"Less than 1 percent of all white blood cells are basophils.","conditions":[]},{"flag":"abnormal","label":{"short":"High","long":"High","orientation":"horizontal"},"values":{"min":1,"max":10},"text":"A higher-than-normal basophil count is known as basophilia. Basophilia can be caused by a wide variety of conditions, such as allergic reactions, asthma, and rheumatoid arthritis, among others.","conditions":["After splenectomy","Allergic reaction","Chronic myelogenous leukemia (a type of bone marrow cancer)","Collagen vascular disease","Myeloproliferative diseases (group of bone marrow diseases)","Chickenpox"]}],"units":[{"printSymbol":"%{WBCs}","code":"%{WBCs}","name":"percent of white blood cells"}],"value":0.55,"disclaimer":"Normal reference ranges can vary depending on the laboratory and the method used for testing. You must use the range supplied by the laboratory that performed your test to evaluate whether your results are \"within normal limits.\""}[{"borderline":0},{"normal":0},{"abnormal":0}]
Use the slider below to see how your results affect your health.
%{WBCs}
0.1
1
Your result is Normal.
Less than 1 percent of all white blood cells are basophils.
Related conditions
{"label":"Basophil count reference range","scale":"lin","step":0.01,"hideunits":false,"items":[{"flag":"normal","label":{"short":"Normal","long":"Normal","orientation":"horizontal"},"values":{"min":0,"max":0.2},"text":"Less than 1 percent of all white blood cells are basophils. A normal basophil count for adults usually is less than 200 basophils per microliter of blood.","conditions":[]},{"flag":"abnormal","label":{"short":"High","long":"High","orientation":"horizontal"},"values":{"min":0.2,"max":0.5},"text":"A higher-than-normal basophil count is known as basophilia. Basophilia can be caused by a wide variety of conditions, such as allergic reactions, asthma, and rheumatoid arthritis, among others.","conditions":["After splenectomy","Allergic reaction","Chronic myelogenous leukemia (a type of bone marrow cancer)","Collagen vascular disease","Myeloproliferative diseases (group of bone marrow diseases)","Chickenpox"]}],"units":[{"printSymbol":"(10³)\/\u03bcL","code":"10*3\/uL","name":"thousand per microliter"}],"value":0.1,"disclaimer":"Normal reference ranges can vary depending on the laboratory and the method used for testing. You must use the range supplied by the laboratory that performed your test to evaluate whether your results are \"within normal limits.\""}[{"normal":0},{"abnormal":0}]
Use the slider below to see how your results affect your health.
(10³)/μL
0.2
Your result is Normal.
Less than 1 percent of all white blood cells are basophils. A normal basophil count for adults usually is less than 200 basophils per microliter of blood.
Related conditions
The number of basophils in your blood is measured as part of a blood differential test.
A blood differential test is often part of a general physical exam. Because the different types of white blood cell do different jobs, measuring them separately can give your health care provider important information about your health.
The test can also help diagnose a variety of medical conditions, such as:
- Infections
- Autoimmune diseases
- Inflammatory diseases
- Leukemia and other types of cancer
The results can be expressed as a percentage (of the total number of all white blood cells) or as an absolute value.
An increased number of basophils in your blood, known as basophilia, may be due to:
- After splenectomy
- Allergic reaction
- Chronic myelogenous leukemia
- Collagen vascular disease
- Myeloproliferative diseases (such as polycythemia vera and myelofibrosis)
- Chickenpox
A decreased number of basophils in your blood, known as basopenia, may be due to:
- Acute infection
- Cancer
- Severe injury
1. Blood Differential: MedlinePlus Medical Test [accessed on Jan 22, 2024]
2. Blood differential test: MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia [accessed on Jan 22, 2024]
3. Basophil (close-up): MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia Image [accessed on Jan 22, 2024]
4. DALE.DAVID. Basophilic Disorders - Blood Disorders - MSD Manual Consumer Version [accessed on Jan 22, 2024]
5. Graham LeGros. Understanding the roles of basophils: breaking dawn. Immunology. Mar 1, 2012. doi:10.1111/j.1365-2567.2011.03530.x [accessed on Jan 22, 2024]

Normal reference ranges can vary depending on the laboratory and the method used for testing. You must use the range supplied by the laboratory that performed your test to evaluate whether your results are "within normal limits."

Additional Materials (12)

White Blood Cells Rotation

This rotational interactive features five white blood cells. At the top left is a neutrophil (purple nucleus); center is a Monocyte-macrophage (orange nucleus); top right is a Lymphocyte (red nucleus); bottom left a Basophil (green nucleus); and bottom right an Eosinophil (yellow nucleus). These molecules are all part of a white blood cell count test. A white blood cell count is an important measure of this key component of the immune system; when the body is under attack, more WBCs are produced. White blood cells (also called leukocytes or WBCs) are in the front lines in the fight against harmful viruses, bacteria and even fungus. A white blood cell count is an important measure of this key component of the immune system; when the body is under attack, more WBCs are produced. Other factors, however, may also affect WBC counts, including allergies, chemotherapy, and other drugs, as well as leukemia.

Image by TheVisualMD

White Blood Cells, Bone Marrow

Bone marrow is constantly producing blood cells, including white blood cells and red blood cells as well platelets, which are cell fragments important for blood clotting. Disease and disorders of the bone marrow can, in turn, affect the production of blood cells. Both cancer and cancer treatment (chemotherapy and radiation) can also have an impact on the bone marrow's ability to produce blood cells.

Image by TheVisualMD

This browser does not support the video element.

Complete Blood Count, and Baselining Your Health

Video Topics : Our lifeblood consists of many components and a complete blood count (CBC) includes measurements of the fundamental elements. The largest categories are red and white blood cells (RBCs and WBCs) and cell fragments called platelets, which play roles in blood clotting. There are 20-30 trillion red blood cells in the body of an adult, each with a lifespan of about 100 days (RBCs contain an iron-containing protein called hemoglobin that enables them to carry oxygen to tissues throughout the body and then return carbon dioxide to the lungs). WBCs are in the front lines in the body's ongoing fight against harmful viruses, bacteria and even fungus; when a pathogen enters the body, WBCs mobilize in a coordinated defense response to eliminate, neutralize or mark the invader for destruction. The liquid portion of blood is called plasma and it carries nutrients, electrolytes, waste products, and hormones.

Video by TheVisualMD

What Does My White Blood Cell Count Tell My Healthcare Team?

Video by Diverse Health Hub/YouTube

Basophil

Visualization of a basophil. A type of leukocyte (white blood cell) responsible for combating infection.

Image by TheVisualMD

Basophil

Visualization of a basophil. A type of leukocyte (white blood cell) responsible for combating infection. Basophils are the least common of the granulocytes, representing about 0.01% to 0.3% of circulating leukocytes (white blood cells). They contain large cytoplasmic granules which obscure the cell nucleus under the microscope.

Image by BruceBlaus

Basophil

Basophil function, relationship to disease, and location in the human body.

Image by NIAID/NIH

Bone structure

Anatomy of the bone. The bone is made up of compact bone, spongy bone, and bone marrow. Compact bone makes up the outer layer of the bone. Spongy bone is found mostly at the ends of bones and contains red marrow. Bone marrow is found in the center of most bones and has many blood vessels. There are two types of bone marrow: red and yellow. Red marrow contains blood stem cells that can become red blood cells, white blood cells, or platelets. Yellow marrow is made mostly of fat.

Image by Smart Servier website

Granulocytes

Granulocytes can be distinguished by the number of lobes in their nuclei and the staining properties of their granules. (credit “neutrophil” micrograph: modification of work by Ed Uthman)

Image by CNX/OpenStax

MastBasophilCells

Mast cells function similarly to basophils by inducing and promoting inflammatory responses. (a) This figure shows mast cells in blood. In a blood smear, they are difficult to differentiate from basophils (b). Unlike basophils, mast cells migrate from the blood into various tissues.

Image by modification of work by Greenland JR, Xu X, Sayah DM, Liu FC, Jones KD, Looney MR, Caughey GH)

hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs)

All the formed elements of the blood arise by differentiation of hematopoietic stem cells in the bone marrow.

Image by CNX/OpenStax

Blood Cells

Formed elements of blood include erythrocytes (red blood cells), leukocytes (white blood cells), and platelets.

Image by OpenStax

White Blood Cells Rotation

TheVisualMD

White Blood Cells, Bone Marrow

TheVisualMD

2:12

Complete Blood Count, and Baselining Your Health

TheVisualMD

5:01

What Does My White Blood Cell Count Tell My Healthcare Team?

Diverse Health Hub/YouTube

Basophil

TheVisualMD

Basophil

BruceBlaus

Basophil

NIAID/NIH

Bone structure

Smart Servier website

Granulocytes

CNX/OpenStax

MastBasophilCells

modification of work by Greenland JR, Xu X, Sayah DM, Liu FC, Jones KD, Looney MR, Caughey GH)

hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs)

CNX/OpenStax

Blood Cells

OpenStax

Red Blood Cell (RBC) Morphology Test

Red Blood Cell (RBC) Morphology Test

Also called: RBC-M, Red Cell Morphology, Red Blood Cell Morphology, RBC Morphology, Erythrocyte Morphology

A red blood cell (RBC) morphology is a test done to evaluate the size, shape, structure, and color of your red blood cells (erythrocytes). This test is useful to help detect and help diagnose a wide variety of blood disorders.

Red Blood Cell (RBC) Morphology Test

Also called: RBC-M, Red Cell Morphology, Red Blood Cell Morphology, RBC Morphology, Erythrocyte Morphology

A red blood cell (RBC) morphology is a test done to evaluate the size, shape, structure, and color of your red blood cells (erythrocytes). This test is useful to help detect and help diagnose a wide variety of blood disorders.

{"label":"RBC-M grading reference range","scale":"lin","step":1,"hideunits":false,"items":[{"flag":"normal","label":{"short":"nonspecific","long":"Normal (nonspecific)","orientation":"horizontal"},"values":{"min":0,"max":1},"text":"Red blood cells (RBCs) normally are the same size and color and are a lighter color in the center.","conditions":[]},{"flag":"borderline","label":{"short":"Slight\/few","long":"1+ (Slight\/few)","orientation":"horizontal"},"values":{"min":1,"max":2},"text":"An RBC morphology grade of 1+ means a few number of abnormal cells were identified. It may include RBC distribution abnormalities (rouleaux and agglutination), anisocytosis, poikilocytosis, polychromasia\/hypochromasia, and inclusions or organisms.","conditions":[]},{"flag":"abnormal","label":{"short":"Moderate","long":"2+ (Moderate)","orientation":"horizontal"},"values":{"min":2,"max":3},"text":"An RBC morphology grade of 2+ means a moderate number of abnormal cells were identified. It may include RBC distribution abnormalities (rouleaux and agglutination), anisocytosis, poikilocytosis, polychromasia\/hypochromasia, and inclusions or organisms.","conditions":[]},{"flag":"abnormal","label":{"short":"Marked","long":"3+ (Marked)","orientation":"horizontal"},"values":{"min":3,"max":4},"text":"An RBC morphology grade of 3+ means numerous abnormal cells were identified. It may include RBC distribution abnormalities (rouleaux and agglutination), anisocytosis, poikilocytosis, polychromasia\/hypochromasia, and inclusions or organisms.","conditions":[]},{"flag":"abnormal","label":{"short":"4+","long":"4+","orientation":"horizontal"},"values":{"min":4,"max":5},"text":"An RBC morphology grade of 4+ means numerous abnormal cells were identified. It may include RBC distribution abnormalities (rouleaux and agglutination), anisocytosis, poikilocytosis, polychromasia\/hypochromasia, and inclusions or organisms.","conditions":[]}],"value":1,"disclaimer":"Normal reference ranges can vary depending on the laboratory and the method used for testing. You must use the range supplied by the laboratory that performed your test to evaluate whether your results are \"within normal limits.\""}[{"normal":0},{"borderline":0},{"abnormal":0},{"abnormal":1},{"abnormal":2}]
Use the slider below to see how your results affect your health.
1
2
3
4
Your result is Normal (nonspecific).
Red blood cells (RBCs) normally are the same size and color and are a lighter color in the center.
Related conditions
Abnormalities of RBC shape and other RBC features can provide key information in establishing a differential diagnosis. A differential diagnosis process is used to help make a final diagnosis when you have symptoms that don't have one clear cause.
RBC morphology can help to differentiate between different types of blood disorders, and, specifically, to:
- increase or decrease the diagnostic likelihood of thalassemia
- differentiate between blood loss, marrow failure, and hemolysis
- guide the diagnostic considerations for the different types of anemia
An RBC morphology evaluation is typically done on a blood smear. You may need a blood smear if you have abnormal results on a complete blood count (CBC). A CBC is a routine test that measures many different parts of your blood.
Your health care provider may order a blood smear if you have symptoms of a blood disorder, such as:
- Fatigue
- Jaundice, a condition that causes your skin and eyes to turn yellow
- Unusual bleeding, including nosebleeds
- Fever that lasts, or comes and goes
- Bone pain
- Anemia
- Easy bruising
- A spleen that's larger than normal
Normal
A normal result shows that your RBCs are of average shape, size, and color. This is usually reported as “normocytic” (normal size) and “normochromic” (normal color).
RBCs are donut-shaped with a light-colored depression in the middle instead of a hole (are biconcave) and have a pink to red color.
Abnormal
If a significant number of RBCs are abnormal in either shape, size, structure, and/or color; this means that a disease or condition that affects the RBCs is present.
A red blood cell abnormality can be indicative of a wide variety of conditions, such as:
- Iron deficiency anemia
- Megaloblastic anemia (due to folate or vitamin B12 deficiency)
- Hemolytic anemia (RBC destruction)
- Thalassemia
- Hemoglobinopathies
- Liver diseases
- Alcoholism
- Hypersplenism (overactive spleen).
- Kidney failure
- Leukemia (a type of cancer)
- Bone marrow disorders
1. https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/003665.htm [accessed on Mar 27, 2019]
2. https://www.urmc.rochester.edu/encyclopedia/content.aspx?ContentTypeID=167&ContentID=blood_smear [accessed on Mar 27, 2019]
3. http://www.labpedia.net/test/127 [accessed on Mar 27, 2019]
4. https://www.mayocliniclabs.com/test-catalog/Clinical+and+Interpretive/9184 [accessed on Mar 27, 2019]
5. https://labtestsonline.org/tests/blood-smear [accessed on Mar 27, 2019]
6. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23480230 [accessed on Mar 27, 2019]
7. https://laboratoryinfo.com/variations-in-red-blood-cell-morphology/ [accessed on Mar 27, 2019]
8. Interpretation of Red Blood Cell Morphology (Advanced Level) - WSAVA2004 - VIN [accessed on Jan 22, 2024]
9. Author. Blood Morphology - Ask Hematologist | Understand Hematology. Apr 30, 2018 [accessed on Jan 22, 2024]
10. Ann Abiola Ogbenna. Erythrocyte Morphology and Its Disorders. IntechOpen. Jun 14, 2019. doi:10.5772/intechopen.86112 [accessed on Jan 22, 2024]

Normal reference ranges can vary depending on the laboratory and the method used for testing. You must use the range supplied by the laboratory that performed your test to evaluate whether your results are "within normal limits."

Iron Tests

Iron Tests

Also called: Fe Tests, Iron Indices, Iron Levels, Iron Studies

Iron tests measure different substances in the blood to check iron levels in your body. Iron levels that are too low or too high can indicate a serious health problem.

Iron Tests

Also called: Fe Tests, Iron Indices, Iron Levels, Iron Studies

Iron tests measure different substances in the blood to check iron levels in your body. Iron levels that are too low or too high can indicate a serious health problem.

Iron tests measure different substances in the blood to check iron levels in your body. Iron is a mineral that's essential for making red blood cells. Red blood cells carry oxygen from your lungs to the rest of your body. Iron is also important for healthy muscles, bone marrow, and organ function. Iron levels that are too low or too high can cause serious health problems.
Different types of iron tests include:
- Serum iron test, which measures the amount of iron in the blood
- Transferrin test, which measures transferrin, a protein that moves iron throughout the body
- Total iron-binding capacity (TIBC), which measures how well iron attaches to transferrin and other proteins in the blood
- Ferritin blood test, which measures how much iron is stored in the body
Some or all of these tests are often ordered at the same time.
Iron tests are most often used to:
- Check if your iron levels are too low, a sign of anemia
- Diagnose different types of anemia
- Check if your iron levels are too high, which could be a sign of hemochromatosis. This is a rare genetic disorder that causes too much iron to build up in the body.
- See if treatments for iron deficiency (low iron levels) or excess iron (high iron levels) are working
You may need testing if you have symptoms of iron levels that are too low or too high.
Symptoms of iron levels that are too low include:
- Pale skin
- Fatigue
- Weakness
- Dizziness
- Shortness of breath
- Rapid heartbeat
Symptoms of iron levels that are too high include:
- Joint pain
- Abdominal pain
- Lack of energy
- Weight loss
If one or more iron test results show your iron levels are too low, it may mean you have:
- Iron deficiency anemia, a common type of anemia. Anemia is a disorder in which your body doesn't make enough red blood cells.
- Another type of anemia
- Thalassemia, an inherited blood disorder that causes the body to make fewer than normal healthy red blood cells
If one or more iron test results show your iron levels are too high, it may mean you have:
- Hemochromatosis, a disorder that causes too much iron to build up in the body
- Lead poisoning
- Liver disease
Most conditions that cause too little or too much iron can be successfully treated with iron supplements, diet, medicines, and/or other therapies.
If your iron test results are not normal, it does not necessarily mean you have a medical condition needing treatment. Some medicines, including birth control pills and estrogen treatments, can affect iron levels. Iron levels may also be lower for women during their menstrual cycles.
If you have questions about your results, talk to your health care provider.
Your health care provider may order other blood tests to help check your iron levels. These include:
- Hemoglobin test
- Hematocrit test
- Complete blood count
- Mean corpuscular volume
1. 001321: Iron and Total Iron-binding Capacity (TIBC) | LabCorp [accessed on Oct 03, 2018]
2. TIBC, UIBC, and Transferrin [accessed on Oct 03, 2018]
3. Iron Disorders Institute:: Tests to Determine Iron Levels [accessed on Oct 03, 2018]

Additional Materials (1)

Ferritin Nursing Considerations, Normal Range, Nursing Care, Lab Values Nursing

Video by NURSINGcom/YouTube

3:06

Ferritin Nursing Considerations, Normal Range, Nursing Care, Lab Values Nursing

NURSINGcom/YouTube

Iron Test

Iron Test

Also called: Serum Iron, Fe Test

Iron is an essential mineral for your organism. An iron deficiency will usually cause anemia, which is a condition where oxygen cannot be properly carried throughout your body. Less frequently, an iron excess can also occur.

Iron Test

Also called: Serum Iron, Fe Test

Iron is an essential mineral for your organism. An iron deficiency will usually cause anemia, which is a condition where oxygen cannot be properly carried throughout your body. Less frequently, an iron excess can also occur.

{"label":"Iron Reference Range","scale":"lin","step":0.1,"hideunits":false,"units":[{"printSymbol":"\u03bcg\/dL","code":"ug\/dL","name":"microgram per deciliter"}],"items":[{"flag":"abnormal","label":{"short":"Low","long":"Low","orientation":"horizontal"},"values":{"min":0,"max":60},"text":"Iron deficiency may indicate you are not consuming enough iron or your body isn\u2019t absorbing the iron properly. An iron deficiency will usually cause anemia, which is a condition where oxygen cannot be properly carried throughout your body. ","conditions":["Iron deficiency anemia","Heavy menstrual bleeding","Chronic bleeding caused by ulcers or parasites","Sickle-cell disease","Gastrointestinal disorders","Celiac disease","Crohn's disease","Gastric bypass surgery","Gastrointestinal cancer","Aspirin use","Long-term bleeding"]},{"flag":"normal","label":{"short":"Normal","long":"Normal","orientation":"horizontal"},"values":{"min":60,"max":170},"text":"Normal values can vary depending on your gender and age.","conditions":[]},{"flag":"abnormal","label":{"short":"High","long":"High","orientation":"horizontal"},"values":{"min":170,"max":400},"text":"Iron overload may indicate you\u2019ve consumed too much iron or vitamins B6\/B12 supplements, or that your body retains too much iron.","conditions":["Hemochromatosis,","Iron poisoning","Hemolytic anemia","Recent blood transfusion","Hepatitis",""]}],"value":115}[{"abnormal":0},{"normal":0},{"abnormal":0}]
Use the slider below to see how your results affect your health.
μg/dL
60
170
Your result is Normal.
Normal values can vary depending on your gender and age.
Related conditions
A test for iron will usually be indicated when results from your routine complete blood count (CBC) test show that you have low hemoglobin levels and that your red blood cells are smaller and paler than normal, this is called microcytic and hypochromic anemia, which is highly suggestive of iron deficiency.
People at high risk of not getting enough iron are:
- Women with heavy periods.
- Pregnant women.
- Young children.
- People with gastrointestinal disorders (because either they do not absorb enough iron, or they excrete it through the feces).
- People with cancer.
Less commonly, this test can also be used to help determine if a person has an iron overload.
Normal values can vary depending on your gender and age, but generally iron can range from 60 to 170 micrograms per deciliter (mcg/dL).
Low iron levels can be the result of:
- Not enough iron intake from your diet
- Heavy menstrual bleeding
- Gastrointestinal disorders that cause impaired iron absorption
- Long-term bleeding, usually from the digestive tract
Heightened iron levels can be the result of:
- Hemochromatosis (a condition in which there is excessive iron in the body)
- Hemolytic anemia (a condition where your red blood cells are destroyed, therefore releasing the iron they carry freely into the bloodstream)
- Having a recent blood transfusion
- Hepatitis (liver inflammation)
- Liver tissue death
- Iron poisoning (more common in children who mistakenly take large quantities of iron tablets thinking they are candies)
You should visit your doctor if you experience:
- Unexplained fatigue
- Pallor
- Heart palpitations
- Chest pain
- Abdominal pain
- Dizziness
- Shortness of breath
- Exercise intolerance
- Weakness
- Headaches
- Black stools
1. https://medlineplus.gov/iron.html [accessed on Jan 31, 2019]
2. https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/Iron-Consumer/ [accessed on Jan 31, 2019]
3. https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/003488.htm [accessed on Jan 31, 2019]
4. https://labtestsonline.org/tests/iron-tests [accessed on Jan 31, 2019]
5. https://labtestsonline.org/tests/iron [accessed on Jan 31, 2019]
6. https://www.labcorp.com/test-menu/29881/iron# [accessed on Jan 31, 2019]
7. https://www.healthline.com/health/serum-iron#followup [accessed on Jan 31, 2019]

Normal reference ranges can vary depending on the laboratory and the method used for testing. You must use the range supplied by the laboratory that performed your test to evaluate whether your results are "within normal limits."

Additional Materials (19)

Iron Physiology

Video by Armando Hasudungan/YouTube

Haemochromatosis - animation

Video by HaemochromatosisAust/YouTube

Iron deficency anemia diagnosis | Hematologic System Diseases | NCLEX-RN | Khan Academy

Video by khanacademymedicine/YouTube

Haemochromatosis Explained

Video by HaemochromatosisAust/YouTube

5 facts about Hemochromatosis

Video by Comprehensive Bleeding Disorders Center/YouTube

Living with and Managing Iron-Deficiency Anemia

Video by NHLBI/YouTube

9 SIGNS OF TOO MUCH IRON // DERMATOLOGIST @DrDrayzday

Video by Dr Dray/YouTube

Iron Overload Educational Videos, Resources Events.flv

Video by pkthalassaemia/YouTube

Iron Nursing Considerations, Normal Range, Nursing Care, Lab Values Nursing

Video by NURSINGcom/YouTube

Iron Deficiency Anemia, Ferritin and Fatigue - Testing and Diagnosis

Video by IBS Treatment Center/YouTube

Iron, Hemochromatosis, Hepatomegaly

Hemochromatosis is a genetic disease that causes the body to absorb too much iron. Because the body can't use or eliminate this extra iron, it's stored in organs, especially the liver, but also the heart and pancreas. Eventually, up to 20 times as much iron as normal can accumulate, which can lead to organ failure. Symptoms can include irregular heartbeat, cirrhosis, chronic fatigue, confusion, and hepatomegaly, the enlargement of the liver.

Image by TheVisualMD

Iron Ion

Iron is a trace mineral found in every cell of the body. It is essential for carrying oxygen from the lungs to tissues in the body and for transporting and storing oxygen for muscles. There are two forms of dietary iron: heme and nonheme. Heme is found in animal food sources, while nonheme is derived from plants. Most bodily iron is found in the proteins hemoglobin and myoglobin. Heme iron, found in red meats, fish and poultry, is more easily absorbed by the body than the non-heme iron found in plants. The absorption of non-heme iron increases when eaten alongside meat, poultry, or fish. Consuming iron-rich foods with foods high in Vitamin C can more than double the amount of iron absorbed by the body.

Image by TheVisualMD

How Is Iron-Deficiency Anemia Diagnosed?

Blood smear of a patient with Iron deficiency anemia at 40x enhancement

Image by Roberto J. Galindo

Iron Deficient Red Blood Cells

Anemia occurs when there are too few red blood cells in the bloodstream to deliver adequate oxygen to body tissues. There are different types and causes of anemia, but iron deficiency is the most common. Different tests can determine the amount of iron in the blood, the capacity of the blood to transport iron, and the amount of iron in storage. Iron is transported throughout the body with the help of proteins. The total iron binding capacity test (TIBC) measures the blood's ability to bind and transport iron

Image by TheVisualMD

Heme Group

Hemoglobin is an iron-containing protein found in red blood cells (RBCs) that enables RBCs to deliver oxygen from the lungs to cells throughout the body and carry carbon dioxide from these cells back to the lungs. It is the iron in hemoglobin that gives blood its red color; a single RBC can contain 250 million hemoglobin molecules. Hemoglobin is one of several tests used to detect anemia.

Image by TheVisualMD

Vitamins, Minerals, & Development

Image by TheVisualMD

Nourishing Baby in the Womb

Image by TheVisualMD

This browser does not support the video element.

Anemia & Chronic Kidney Disease

Explore the inner workings of the body to understand the relationship between chronic kidney disease(CKD) and anemia, a debilitating condition that affects people with CKD. Learn how the kidney is responsible for starting the elaborate process of creating red blood cells and how the delicate balance of these cells affects your vitality.

Video by TheVisualMD

This browser does not support the video element.

Anemia Blood Flow

Shows anemic blood flow through a capillary embedded in tissue (type of tissue/cells? Part of body?)

Video by TheVisualMD

14:07

Iron Physiology

Armando Hasudungan/YouTube

2:15

Haemochromatosis - animation

HaemochromatosisAust/YouTube

9:54

Iron deficency anemia diagnosis | Hematologic System Diseases | NCLEX-RN | Khan Academy

khanacademymedicine/YouTube

10:00

Haemochromatosis Explained

HaemochromatosisAust/YouTube

2:17

5 facts about Hemochromatosis

Comprehensive Bleeding Disorders Center/YouTube

3:56

Living with and Managing Iron-Deficiency Anemia

NHLBI/YouTube

13:05

9 SIGNS OF TOO MUCH IRON // DERMATOLOGIST @DrDrayzday

Dr Dray/YouTube

2:01

Iron Overload Educational Videos, Resources Events.flv

pkthalassaemia/YouTube

2:39

Iron Nursing Considerations, Normal Range, Nursing Care, Lab Values Nursing

NURSINGcom/YouTube

3:38

Iron Deficiency Anemia, Ferritin and Fatigue - Testing and Diagnosis

IBS Treatment Center/YouTube

Iron, Hemochromatosis, Hepatomegaly

TheVisualMD

Iron Ion

TheVisualMD

How Is Iron-Deficiency Anemia Diagnosed?

Roberto J. Galindo

Iron Deficient Red Blood Cells

TheVisualMD

Heme Group

TheVisualMD

Vitamins, Minerals, & Development

TheVisualMD

Nourishing Baby in the Womb

TheVisualMD

1:54

Anemia & Chronic Kidney Disease

TheVisualMD

0:12

Anemia Blood Flow

TheVisualMD

Ferritin Test

Ferritin Test

A ferritin blood test measures the level of ferritin in your blood. Ferritin is a protein that stores iron inside your cells. It helps determine if your body has the right amount of iron to stay healthy.

Ferritin Test

A ferritin blood test measures the level of ferritin in your blood. Ferritin is a protein that stores iron inside your cells. It helps determine if your body has the right amount of iron to stay healthy.

{"label":"Ferritin Reference Range","scale":"lin","step":0.1,"hideunits":false,"units":[{"printSymbol":"ng\/mL","code":"ng\/mL","name":"nanogram per milliliter"}],"items":[{"flag":"abnormal","label":{"short":"Low","long":"Low","orientation":"horizontal"},"values":{"min":0,"max":15},"text":"Lower than normal ferritin levels may mean you have iron deficiency anemia or another condition related to low iron levels. Iron deficiency anemia is a common type of anemia, a disorder in which your body doesn't make enough red blood cells. Iron deficiency anemia can cause heart problems, infections, and other health issues.","conditions":["Heavy menstrual bleeding","Intestinal conditions that cause poor iron absorption","Iron deficiency anemia","Long-term digestive tract bleeding"]},{"flag":"normal","label":{"short":"Normal","long":"Normal","orientation":"horizontal"},"values":{"min":15,"max":200},"text":"Normal results vary based on the laboratory and the method used.","conditions":[]},{"flag":"abnormal","label":{"short":"High","long":"High","orientation":"horizontal"},"values":{"min":200,"max":400},"text":"Higher than normal ferritin levels can mean you have too much iron in your body. Conditions that cause increased iron levels include liver disease, alcohol abuse, and hemochromatosis, a disorder that can lead to cirrhosis, heart disease, and diabetes.","conditions":["Alcoholic liver disease","Frequent transfusion of packed red blood cells","Hemochromatosis","Porphyria","Rheumatoid arthritis, adult Still's disease or other chronic inflammatory disorder","Liver disease","Hyperthyroidism","Type 2 diabetes","Leukemia","Hodgkin's lymphoma","Multiple blood transfusions"]}],"value":107.5}[{"abnormal":0},{"normal":0},{"abnormal":0}]
Use the slider below to see how your results affect your health.
ng/mL
15
200
Your result is Normal.
Normal results vary based on the laboratory and the method used.
Related conditions
You may need this test if you have symptoms of iron levels that are too low or too high.
Symptoms of iron levels that are too low include:
- Pale skin
- Fatigue
- Weakness
- Dizziness
- Shortness of breath
- Rapid heart beat
Symptoms of iron levels that are too high can vary and tend to get worse over time. Symptoms may include:
- Joint pain
- Abdominal pain
- Lack of energy
- Weight loss
You may also need this test if you have restless legs syndrome, a condition that may be related to low iron levels.

Normal reference ranges can vary depending on the laboratory and the method used for testing. You must use the range supplied by the laboratory that performed your test to evaluate whether your results are "within normal limits."

Additional Materials (14)

Iron Deficiency Anemia, Ferritin and Fatigue - Testing and Diagnosis

Video by IBS Treatment Center/YouTube

Ferritin Nursing Considerations, Normal Range, Nursing Care, Lab Values Nursing

Video by NURSINGcom/YouTube

Chronic Fatigue | Ferritin, Vitamin D, and Thyroid

Video by DoctorPatrickFlynn/YouTube

Ferritin and Hypothyroidism - Is Iron Your Problem?

Video by Dr. Nikolas Hedberg, D.C./YouTube

Iron deficency anemia diagnosis | Hematologic System Diseases | NCLEX-RN | Khan Academy

Video by khanacademymedicine/YouTube

Living with and Managing Iron-Deficiency Anemia

Video by NHLBI/YouTube

Haemochromatosis - animation

Video by HaemochromatosisAust/YouTube

Iron Physiology

Video by Armando Hasudungan/YouTube

Pernicious Anemia Part 3

Video by Simple Nursing/YouTube

The Role of Red Blood Cells in Anemia

Video by American Society of Hematology/YouTube

Haemochromatosis Explained

Video by HaemochromatosisAust/YouTube

5 facts about Hemochromatosis

Video by Comprehensive Bleeding Disorders Center/YouTube

9 SIGNS OF TOO MUCH IRON // DERMATOLOGIST @DrDrayzday

Video by Dr Dray/YouTube

Iron Overload Educational Videos, Resources Events.flv

Video by pkthalassaemia/YouTube

3:38

Iron Deficiency Anemia, Ferritin and Fatigue - Testing and Diagnosis

IBS Treatment Center/YouTube

3:06

Ferritin Nursing Considerations, Normal Range, Nursing Care, Lab Values Nursing

NURSINGcom/YouTube

7:54

Chronic Fatigue | Ferritin, Vitamin D, and Thyroid

DoctorPatrickFlynn/YouTube

10:06

Ferritin and Hypothyroidism - Is Iron Your Problem?

Dr. Nikolas Hedberg, D.C./YouTube

9:54

Iron deficency anemia diagnosis | Hematologic System Diseases | NCLEX-RN | Khan Academy

khanacademymedicine/YouTube

3:56

Living with and Managing Iron-Deficiency Anemia

NHLBI/YouTube

2:15

Haemochromatosis - animation

HaemochromatosisAust/YouTube

14:07

Iron Physiology

Armando Hasudungan/YouTube

10:03

Pernicious Anemia *Part 3*

Simple Nursing/YouTube

1:04

The Role of Red Blood Cells in Anemia

American Society of Hematology/YouTube

10:00

Haemochromatosis Explained

HaemochromatosisAust/YouTube

2:17

5 facts about Hemochromatosis

Comprehensive Bleeding Disorders Center/YouTube

13:05

9 SIGNS OF TOO MUCH IRON // DERMATOLOGIST @DrDrayzday

Dr Dray/YouTube

2:01

Iron Overload Educational Videos, Resources Events.flv

pkthalassaemia/YouTube

Transferrin Test

Transferrin Test

Also called: Siderophilin

Transferrin is the main protein in charge of iron binding and transportation throughout the body. Iron is an essential mineral that is necessary for your body to carry out certain functions. This test measures the amount of transferrin in a sample of your blood.

Transferrin Test

Also called: Siderophilin

Transferrin is the main protein in charge of iron binding and transportation throughout the body. Iron is an essential mineral that is necessary for your body to carry out certain functions. This test measures the amount of transferrin in a sample of your blood.

{"label":"Transferrin Reference Range","scale":"lin","step":0.1,"hideunits":false,"units":[{"printSymbol":"mg\/dL","code":"mg\/dL","name":"milligram per deciliter"}],"items":[{"flag":"abnormal","label":{"short":"Low","long":"Low","orientation":"horizontal"},"values":{"min":0,"max":200},"text":"Low transferrin levels usually indicate excessive iron in the blood, which can be the result of a wide variety of conditions. Talk to your doctor to find out more about your results. ","conditions":["Iron overload","Hemolytic anemia","Chronic inflammatory states","Hereditary atransferrinemia","Liver disease","Kidney disease","Cancer"]},{"flag":"normal","label":{"short":"Normal","long":"Normal","orientation":"horizontal"},"values":{"min":200,"max":370},"text":"Normal results vary based on the laboratory and the method used for testing.","conditions":[]},{"flag":"abnormal","label":{"short":"High","long":"High","orientation":"horizontal"},"values":{"min":370,"max":600},"text":"Increased transferrin levels is usually indicative of low levels of iron in the blood. Talk to your doctor to find out more about your results. ","conditions":["Iron deficiency anemia","Intake of oral contraceptives","Late pregnancy"]}],"value":285}[{"abnormal":0},{"normal":0},{"abnormal":0}]
Use the slider below to see how your results affect your health.
mg/dL
200
370
Your result is Normal.
Normal results vary based on the laboratory and the method used for testing.
Related conditions
Your doctor may want to order this test to assess your body's ability to transport iron, usually when you have signs and symptoms of iron deficiency or overload, which can include:
- Unexplained fatigue
- Pallor
- Heart palpitations
- Chest pain
- Abdominal pain
- Dizziness
- Shortness of breath
- Exercise intolerance
- Weakness
- Headaches
- Black stools
The main reason to order this test is when results from your routine complete blood count (CBC) test show that you have low hemoglobin levels and that your red blood cells are smaller and paler than normal, this is called microcytic and hypochromic anemia, which is highly suggestive of iron deficiency.
In some cases, a transferrin test may also be ordered to evaluate a person's nutritional status.
Normal transferrin levels are 200 to 370 mg/dL. However, reference ranges can vary depending on the method used for testing by the laboratory.
High transferrin levels can be seen in:
- Iron deficiency anemia
- Intake of oral contraceptives
- Late pregnancy
Decreased transferrin levels can be seen in:
- Iron overload
- Hemolytic anemia (a condition where your red blood cells are destroyed, therefore releasing the iron they carry freely into the bloodstream)
- Chronic inflammatory states, such as rheumatoid arthritis
- Hereditary atransferrinemia, which is a very rare genetic disorder caused by a transferrin deficiency
- Liver disease
- Kidney disease
- Cancer
1. 004937: Transferrin | LabCorp [accessed on Oct 02, 2018]
2. Transferrin - Health Encyclopedia - University of Rochester Medical Center [accessed on Oct 02, 2018]
3. https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/tibc-test/ [accessed on Mar 06, 2019]
4. https://www.medicineshoppe.ca/en/article/laboratory-tests/iron-transferrin-and-ferritin-tests-and-total-iron-binding-capacity-tibc-blood [accessed on Mar 06, 2019]
5. https://emedicine.medscape.com/article/2087960-overview [accessed on Mar 06, 2019]
6. https://labtestsonline.org/tests/transferrin-and-iron-binding-capacity-tibc-uibc [accessed on Mar 06, 2019]

Normal reference ranges can vary depending on the laboratory and the method used for testing. You must use the range supplied by the laboratory that performed your test to evaluate whether your results are "within normal limits."

Additional Materials (10)

Red Blood Cell in Capillary

The cardiovascular system is vast network of arteries, veins and vessels that would extend 60,000 miles if stretched end-to-end. All but a tiny fraction of this vessel network is invisible to the naked eye. The smallest capillaries (from latin "hairlike") are so narrow that red blood cells must pass through in single file. Higher than normal blood iron levels have been linked to heart disease and the reason is believed to be the oxidative stress the excess iron places on the walls of the blood vessels. It is the biological counterpart of rust. There are 20-30 trillion red blood cells (RBCs) in an adult's body. The life span of RBCs, which are produced in bone marrow, is about 100 days, which means that 2 million die (and are replaced) each second, but in that short lifetime they can make 75,000 round trips between lungs, heart and tissues in the body.

Image by TheVisualMD

Transferrin

Video by Mometrix Academy/YouTube

Iron deficency anemia diagnosis | Hematologic System Diseases | NCLEX-RN | Khan Academy

Video by khanacademymedicine/YouTube

Living with and Managing Iron-Deficiency Anemia

Video by NHLBI/YouTube

Haemochromatosis - animation

Video by HaemochromatosisAust/YouTube

What is anemia? | Hematologic System Diseases | NCLEX-RN | Khan Academy

Video by khanacademymedicine/YouTube

Iron Physiology

Video by Armando Hasudungan/YouTube

The Role of Red Blood Cells in Anemia

Video by American Society of Hematology/YouTube

Haemochromatosis Explained

Video by HaemochromatosisAust/YouTube

5 facts about Hemochromatosis

Video by Comprehensive Bleeding Disorders Center/YouTube

Red Blood Cell in Capillary

TheVisualMD

2:49

Transferrin

Mometrix Academy/YouTube

9:54

Iron deficency anemia diagnosis | Hematologic System Diseases | NCLEX-RN | Khan Academy

khanacademymedicine/YouTube

3:56

Living with and Managing Iron-Deficiency Anemia

NHLBI/YouTube

2:15

Haemochromatosis - animation

HaemochromatosisAust/YouTube

8:14

What is anemia? | Hematologic System Diseases | NCLEX-RN | Khan Academy

khanacademymedicine/YouTube

14:07

Iron Physiology

Armando Hasudungan/YouTube

1:04

The Role of Red Blood Cells in Anemia

American Society of Hematology/YouTube

10:00

Haemochromatosis Explained

HaemochromatosisAust/YouTube

2:17

5 facts about Hemochromatosis

Comprehensive Bleeding Disorders Center/YouTube

Transferrin Saturation

Transferrin Saturation

Also called: TSAT, Iron Saturation

Transferrin saturation, measured as a percentage, is a medical laboratory value. It is calculated by dividing iron levels by total iron-binding capacity (TIBC) levels. The test assesses how much of your stored iron can be used to make new red blood cells.

Transferrin Saturation

Also called: TSAT, Iron Saturation

Transferrin saturation, measured as a percentage, is a medical laboratory value. It is calculated by dividing iron levels by total iron-binding capacity (TIBC) levels. The test assesses how much of your stored iron can be used to make new red blood cells.

{"label":"Transferrin Saturation Reference Range","scale":"lin","step":0.1,"hideunits":false,"units":[{"printSymbol":"%","code":"%","name":"percent"}],"items":[{"flag":"abnormal","label":{"short":"Low","long":"Low","orientation":"horizontal"},"values":{"min":0,"max":20},"text":"Low transferrin saturation indicates iron deficiency. You may benefit from iron supplements.","conditions":["Hemochromatosis","Iron deficiency anemia","Malnutrition","Liver disease","Cirrhosis","Nephrotic syndrome","Inflammation","Sickle cell anemia"]},{"flag":"normal","label":{"short":"normal","long":"normal","orientation":"horizontal"},"values":{"min":20,"max":50},"text":"Normal results vary based on the laboratory and the method used.","conditions":[]},{"flag":"abnormal","label":{"short":"high","long":"high","orientation":"horizontal"},"values":{"min":50,"max":100},"text":"High levels of transferrin saturation suggest iron overload.","conditions":[]}],"value":35}[{"abnormal":0},{"normal":0},{"abnormal":0}]
Use the slider below to see how your results affect your health.
%
20
50
Your result is normal.
Normal results vary based on the laboratory and the method used.
Related conditions
Your doctor might suspect anemia and wants to determine if you have iron-deficiency anemia or another type of anemia.
Symptoms of low iron levels can include:
- Fatigue
- Weakness
- Dizziness
- Shortness of breath
- Pale skin
- Pica (cravings for chalk, dirt and some other non-food items)
Symptoms of excess of iron levels can include:
- Abdominal pain
- Lack of energy
- Loss of weight
- Joint Pain
- Loss of sex drive
- Joint pain

Normal reference ranges can vary depending on the laboratory and the method used for testing. You must use the range supplied by the laboratory that performed your test to evaluate whether your results are "within normal limits."

Additional Materials (8)

Iron, Hemochromatosis, Hepatomegaly

Hemochromatosis is a genetic disease that causes the body to absorb too much iron. Because the body can't use or eliminate this extra iron, it's stored in organs, especially the liver, but also the heart and pancreas. Eventually, up to 20 times as much iron as normal can accumulate, which can lead to organ failure. Symptoms can include irregular heartbeat, cirrhosis, chronic fatigue, confusion, and hepatomegaly, the enlargement of the liver.

Image by TheVisualMD

How Is Iron-Deficiency Anemia Diagnosed?

Blood smear of a patient with Iron deficiency anemia at 40x enhancement

Image by Roberto J. Galindo

Iron

A metallic element with atomic symbol Fe, atomic number 26, and atomic weight 55.85. It is an essential constituent of HEMOGLOBINS; CYTOCHROMES; and IRON-BINDING PROTEINS. It plays a role in cellular redox reactions and in the transport of OXYGEN.

Image by Alchemist-hp

Heme Group

Hemoglobin is an iron-containing protein found in red blood cells (RBCs) that enables RBCs to deliver oxygen from the lungs to cells throughout the body and carry carbon dioxide from these cells back to the lungs. It is the iron in hemoglobin that gives blood its red color; a single RBC can contain 250 million hemoglobin molecules. Hemoglobin is one of several tests used to detect anemia.

Image by TheVisualMD

Iron Deficient Red Blood Cells

Anemia occurs when there are too few red blood cells in the bloodstream to deliver adequate oxygen to body tissues. There are different types and causes of anemia, but iron deficiency is the most common. Different tests can determine the amount of iron in the blood, the capacity of the blood to transport iron, and the amount of iron in storage. Iron is transported throughout the body with the help of proteins. The total iron binding capacity test (TIBC) measures the blood's ability to bind and transport iron

Image by TheVisualMD

Red Blood Cell in Capillary

The cardiovascular system is vast network of arteries, veins and vessels that would extend 60,000 miles if stretched end-to-end. All but a tiny fraction of this vessel network is invisible to the naked eye. The smallest capillaries (from latin "hairlike") are so narrow that red blood cells must pass through in single file. Higher than normal blood iron levels have been linked to heart disease and the reason is believed to be the oxidative stress the excess iron places on the walls of the blood vessels. It is the biological counterpart of rust. There are 20-30 trillion red blood cells (RBCs) in an adult's body. The life span of RBCs, which are produced in bone marrow, is about 100 days, which means that 2 million die (and are replaced) each second, but in that short lifetime they can make 75,000 round trips between lungs, heart and tissues in the body.

Image by TheVisualMD

Transferrin

Transferrin is a protein in the blood that carries iron to bone marrow and other tissues. When iron is absorbed through the intestines into surrounding capillaries, each transferrin molecule in the blood can pick up two molecules of iron. Once iron is bound to transferrin, most of it is taken to bone marrow. There, it is combined with the hemoglobin of red blood cells. The remaining iron is stored in other tissues.

Image by TheVisualMD

Transferrin

Video by Mometrix Academy/YouTube

Iron, Hemochromatosis, Hepatomegaly

TheVisualMD

How Is Iron-Deficiency Anemia Diagnosed?

Roberto J. Galindo

Iron

Alchemist-hp

Heme Group

TheVisualMD

Iron Deficient Red Blood Cells

TheVisualMD

Red Blood Cell in Capillary

TheVisualMD

Transferrin

TheVisualMD

2:49

Transferrin

Mometrix Academy/YouTube

Total Iron-Binding Capacity Test

Total Iron-Binding Capacity Test

Also called: TIBC

Iron is an essential and vital mineral for your organism. The total iron binding capacity (TIBC) test is used to evaluate your body's ability to transport iron in the blood, by measuring the total amount of iron that can be bound by proteins. Unbalanced TIBC levels have been associated with a wide variety of diseases and conditions.

Total Iron-Binding Capacity Test

Also called: TIBC

Iron is an essential and vital mineral for your organism. The total iron binding capacity (TIBC) test is used to evaluate your body's ability to transport iron in the blood, by measuring the total amount of iron that can be bound by proteins. Unbalanced TIBC levels have been associated with a wide variety of diseases and conditions.

{"label":"Total Iron-Binding Capacity Reference Range","scale":"lin","step":0.1,"hideunits":false,"units":[{"printSymbol":"\u03bcg\/dL","code":"ug\/dL","name":"microgram per deciliter"}],"items":[{"flag":"abnormal","label":{"short":"Low","long":"Low","orientation":"horizontal"},"values":{"min":0,"max":240},"text":"Low TIBC values\u00a0indicate an iron overload in the blood. Talk to your doctor to know what this means in your specific case. ","conditions":["Hemochromatosis","Hemolytic anemia","Recent blood transfusion","Hepatitis","Liver tissue death","Iron poisoning"]},{"flag":"normal","label":{"short":"Normal","long":"Normal","orientation":"horizontal"},"values":{"min":240,"max":450},"text":"Normal results can vary based on the laboratory and the method used.","conditions":[]},{"flag":"abnormal","label":{"short":"High","long":"High","orientation":"horizontal"},"values":{"min":450,"max":750},"text":"High TIBC values indicate low levels of iron in the blood (iron deficiency). Talk to your doctor to know what this means in your specific case. ","conditions":["Iron deficiency","Malnutrition","Heavy menstrual bleeding","Gastrointestinal disorders","Chronic bleeding"]}],"value":345}[{"abnormal":0},{"normal":0},{"abnormal":0}]
Use the slider below to see how your results affect your health.
μg/dL
240
450
Your result is Normal.
Normal results can vary based on the laboratory and the method used.
Related conditions
The TIBC test will usually be indicated when results from your routine complete blood count (CBC) test show that you have low hemoglobin levels and that your red blood cells are smaller and paler than normal, this is called microcytic and hypochromic anemia, which is highly suggestive of iron deficiency.
People at high risk of not getting enough iron are:
- Women with heavy periods.
- Pregnant women.
- Young children.
- People with gastrointestinal disorders (because either they do not absorb enough iron, or they excrete it through the feces).
- People with cancer.
Less commonly, this test can also be used to help determine if a person has an iron overload.
The normal range for TIBC is: 240 to 450 mcg/dL or 42.96 to 80.55 μmol/L. Reference ranges can vary depending on your gender, age, and the method used for testing by the laboratory.
High
High TIBC values indicate low levels of iron in the blood (iron deficiency). Low iron levels can be the result of:
- Not enough iron intake from your diet
- Heavy menstrual bleeding
- Gastrointestinal disorders that cause impaired iron absorption
- Long-term bleeding, usually from the digestive tract
Low
Low TIBC values indicate an iron overload in the blood. Increased levels of iron can be the result of:
- Hemochromatosis (a condition in which there is excessive iron in the body)
- Hemolytic anemia (a condition where your red blood cells are destroyed, therefore releasing the iron they carry freely into the bloodstream)
- Having a recent blood transfusion
- Hepatitis (liver inflammation)
- Liver tissue death
- Iron poisoning (more common in children who mistakenly take large quantities of iron tablets thinking they are candies)
You should visit your doctor if you experience:
- Unexplained fatigue
- Pallor
- Heart palpitations
- Chest pain
- Abdominal pain
- Dizziness
- Shortness of breath
- Exercise intolerance
- Weakness
- Headaches
- Black stools
1. TIBC, UIBC, and Transferrin [accessed on Dec 06, 2018]
2. 001321: Iron and Total Iron-binding Capacity (TIBC) | LabCorp [accessed on Dec 06, 2018]
3. Total Iron Binding Capacity (TIBC) Test [accessed on Dec 06, 2018]
4. Iron and Total Iron-Binding Capacity - Health Encyclopedia - University of Rochester Medical Center [accessed on Dec 06, 2018]
5. Iron — Health Professional Fact Sheet [accessed on Dec 06, 2018]

Normal reference ranges can vary depending on the laboratory and the method used for testing. You must use the range supplied by the laboratory that performed your test to evaluate whether your results are "within normal limits."

Additional Materials (10)

Living with and Managing Iron-Deficiency Anemia

Video by NHLBI/YouTube

This browser does not support the video element.

Anemia & Chronic Kidney Disease

Explore the inner workings of the body to understand the relationship between chronic kidney disease(CKD) and anemia, a debilitating condition that affects people with CKD. Learn how the kidney is responsible for starting the elaborate process of creating red blood cells and how the delicate balance of these cells affects your vitality.

Video by TheVisualMD

Iron Overload Educational Videos, Resources Events.flv

Video by pkthalassaemia/YouTube

Iron Nursing Considerations, Normal Range, Nursing Care, Lab Values Nursing

Video by NURSINGcom/YouTube

Iron Physiology

Video by Armando Hasudungan/YouTube

How Is Iron-Deficiency Anemia Diagnosed?

Blood smear of a patient with Iron deficiency anemia at 40x enhancement

Image by Roberto J. Galindo

Iron Deficient Red Blood Cells

Anemia occurs when there are too few red blood cells in the bloodstream to deliver adequate oxygen to body tissues. There are different types and causes of anemia, but iron deficiency is the most common. Different tests can determine the amount of iron in the blood, the capacity of the blood to transport iron, and the amount of iron in storage. Iron is transported throughout the body with the help of proteins. The total iron binding capacity test (TIBC) measures the blood's ability to bind and transport iron

Image by TheVisualMD

Microcytic anemia | Hematologic System Diseases | NCLEX-RN | Khan Academy

Video by khanacademymedicine/YouTube

Microcytic, normocytic, and macrocytic anemias | NCLEX-RN | Khan Academy

Video by khanacademymedicine/YouTube

Iron Deficiency Anemia, Ferritin and Fatigue - Testing and Diagnosis

Video by IBS Treatment Center/YouTube

3:56

Living with and Managing Iron-Deficiency Anemia

NHLBI/YouTube

1:54

Anemia & Chronic Kidney Disease

TheVisualMD

2:01

Iron Overload Educational Videos, Resources Events.flv

pkthalassaemia/YouTube

2:39

Iron Nursing Considerations, Normal Range, Nursing Care, Lab Values Nursing

NURSINGcom/YouTube

14:07

Iron Physiology

Armando Hasudungan/YouTube

How Is Iron-Deficiency Anemia Diagnosed?

Roberto J. Galindo

Iron Deficient Red Blood Cells

TheVisualMD

9:42

Microcytic anemia | Hematologic System Diseases | NCLEX-RN | Khan Academy

khanacademymedicine/YouTube

5:57

Microcytic, normocytic, and macrocytic anemias | NCLEX-RN | Khan Academy

khanacademymedicine/YouTube

3:38

Iron Deficiency Anemia, Ferritin and Fatigue - Testing and Diagnosis

IBS Treatment Center/YouTube

Treatment

Blood transfusion

Image by Ian Furst/User:Doc James

Blood transfusion

Blood bag with chamber dripping blood quickly

Image by Ian Furst/User:Doc James

How Do Health Care Professionals Treat Anemia of Inflammation?

Health care professionals treat anemia of inflammation by treating the underlying condition and by treating the anemia with medicines and occasionally with blood transfusions.

Treating the underlying condition

Health care professionals typically treat anemia of inflammation by treating the underlying condition that is causing inflammation. If treatments are available that can reduce the inflammation, the treatments may cause the anemia to improve or go away. For example, taking medicines to treat inflammation in rheumatoid arthritis can improve anemia.

Medicines

A health care professional may prescribe the erythropoiesis-stimulating agents (ESAs) epoetin alpha or darbepoetin alpha to treat anemia related to CKD, chemotherapy treatments for cancer, or certain treatments for HIV. ESAs cause the bone marrow to make more red blood cells. Health care professionals typically give ESAs as shots and may teach you how to give yourself these shots at home. A health care professional may prescribe iron supplements, given as pills or shots, to help ESAs work.

If you’re on hemodialysis, you may be able to receive intravenous (IV) ESAs and iron supplements during hemodialysis. Read more about treatments for anemia in CKD.

Blood transfusions

In some cases, health care professionals may use blood transfusions to treat severe anemia of inflammation. A blood transfusion can quickly increase the amount of hemoglobin in your blood and boost oxygen.

How does eating, diet, and nutrition affect anemia of inflammation?

If you have a chronic condition that is causing anemia of inflammation, follow the advice of your doctor or dietitian about healthy eating and nutrition.

Source: National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK)

Additional Materials (1)

Iron deficiency and anemia of chronic disease treatment | NCLEX-RN | Khan Academy

Video by khanacademymedicine/YouTube

6:13

Iron deficiency and anemia of chronic disease treatment | NCLEX-RN | Khan Academy

khanacademymedicine/YouTube

Prevention

Blood Plasma

Image by geralt/Pixabay

Blood Plasma

Image by geralt/Pixabay

Can I Prevent Anemia of Inflammation?

Experts have not yet found a way to prevent anemia of inflammation. For some chronic conditions that cause inflammation, treatments may be available to reduce or prevent the inflammation that can lead to anemia. Talk with your doctor about treatments and follow the treatment plan your doctor recommends.

Source: National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK)

Complications

Heart Disease

Image by TheVisualMD

Heart Disease

Image by TheVisualMD

Does Anemia of Inflammation Lead to Other Health Problems?

Anemia of inflammation is typically mild or moderate, meaning that hemoglobin levels in your blood are lower than normal but not severely low. If your anemia becomes severe, the lack of oxygen in your blood can cause symptoms, such as feeling tired or short of breath. Severe anemia can become life-threatening.

In people who have CKD, severe anemia can increase the chance of developing heart problems.

Source: National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK)

Related HealthJournals

Anemia

If you have anemia, your blood doesn't carry enough oxygen to the rest of your body, which can make you feel tired, cold, dizzy, and irritable. Learn about the different causes of anemia, how to diagnose it, and the different treatments available.

Blood

Blood has many functions in your body. Blood tests help doctors check for certain diseases and conditions. Learn about blood functions and characteristics.

Blood Tests

Blood tests help doctors check for certain diseases and conditions. They also help check the function of your organs and show how well treatments are working. Learn more about types of blood tests and what they show.

Inflammation

Inflammation is a normal part of the body's defense to injury or infection. Acute inflammation is characterized by redness, swelling, pain, and/or a feeling of heat in an area of the body. But, inflammation can be damaging when it occurs in healthy tissues or lasts too long, known as chronic inflammation. Learn more about inflammation and how it works.

Autoimmune Diseases

Autoimmune diseases are a family of more than 80 chronic, and often disabling, illnesses that develop when underlying defects in the immune system lead the body to attack its own organs, tissues, and cells. There’s no cure for autoimmune diseases, but there are treatments to help manage their symptoms. Learn about the symptoms, tests, and treatments.

Cancer Treatment Side Effects

Cancer treatments can cause many side effects. Side effects are problems that occur when cancer treatment affects healthy tissues or organs. Side effects can be different for each person, and for different medicines and kinds of treatment. Learn about some of the most common, like hair loss, neutropenia, lymphedema, and cancer pain.

Chronic Kidney Disease

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) means that your kidneys are damaged and can't filter blood as they should. This damage can cause wastes to build up in your body. CKD is common among adults in the United States. More than 30 million American adults may have CKD. Learn about CKD, what causes it, and the treatments available.

Infectious Diseases

Infectious diseases are caused by four main kinds of germs. Vaccines, proper hand washing, and medicines can help prevent infections. Discover more about infectious diseases.

Share and discuss

Share your story, discuss an issue or get
advice from the community

Create conversation

Sign up here for full access to StoryMD

Get free access to in-depth articles and track your personal health.

Create Free Account Sign In

Share with others

Send this HealthJournal to your friends or across your social medias.

Anemia of Inflammation

Anemia of inflammation, also called anemia of chronic disease or ACD, is a type of anemia that affects people who have conditions that cause inflammation, such as infections, autoimmune diseases, cancer, and chronic kidney disease (CKD). Learn about the symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options for this condition.

Copy Link