Hematocrit Meaning
The hematocrit test measures the volume proportion of blood taken up by red blood cells (erythrocytes). For example, if the hematocrit value is 40%, then 100 milliliters (ml) of blood consists of 40 milliliters of red blood cells.
Hematocrit Normal value
The normal value for hematocrit (HK) is between 0.43 and 0.49 L/L for men and between 0.38 and 0.47 L/L for women.
Hematocrit too high
Hematocrit rises when the number of red blood cells increases or when the plasma volume decreases. The latter occurs during dehydration. Hematocrit increases not only when there are more red blood cells, but also when the red blood cells are larger than normal. The cell volume (MCV; mean cell volume or average volume of a red blood cell) is then elevated.
Hematocrit too low
Hematocrit decreases in cases of anemia, decreased production of red blood cells, or increased breakdown of red blood cells. Hematocrit also decreases as a result of bleeding.
Hematocrit Value in Blood
| Result | Unit | Value min-max | Age | Gender | Biomarker interpretation |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Deviant | L/L | 0 - 0,41 | 18 - 100 | Man | The hematocrit is outside the normal range and is too low. |
| Caution | L/L | 0,41 - 0-43 | 18 - 100 | Man | The hematocrit is still within the normal range but is on the low side. |
| Normal | L/L | 0,43 - 0,49 | 18 - 100 | Man | The hematocrit is good. |
| Caution | L/L | 0,49 - 0,51 | 18 - 100 | Man | The hematocrit is still within the normal range but is on the high side. |
| Deviant | L/L | 0,51 - 0,7 | 18 - 100 | Man | The hematocrit is outside the normal range and is too high. |
| Deviant | L/L | 0 - 0,36 | 18 - 100 | Woman | The hematocrit is outside the normal range and is too low. |
| Caution | L/L | 0,36 - 0,38 | 18 - 100 | Woman | The hematocrit is still within the normal range but is on the low side. |
| Normal | L/L | 0,38 - 0,47 | 18 - 100 | Woman | The hematocrit is normal. |
| Caution | L/L | 0,47 - 0,49 | 18 - 100 | Woman | The hematocrit is still within the normal range but is on the high side. |
| Deviant | L/L | 0,49 - 0,7 | 18 - 100 | Woman | The hematocrit is outside the normal range and is too high. |
