What is the connection between anemia and the levels of hematocrit?
The connection between anemia and hematocrit lies in the number of red blood cells and hemoglobin. Hematocrit is the level of red blood cells contained in a blood sample expressed in percent. Compared to the low number of red blood cells, the anemia shows, resulting in low levels of hemoglobin in the bloodstream.
Hemoglobin is a protein found in all red blood cells that make up approximately 35% of each cell. Such proteins are responsible for the transfer of oxygen from the respiratory system to other organs and body systems. If the hematocrit or the concentration of red blood cells is low, then the body does not have enough hemoglobin to properly transport oxygen, resulting in anemia. Hemoglobin is therefore the primary connecting factor between anemia and hematocrit.els. Using the CBC test, doctors can determine the percentage of red blood cells in the body as well as the hemoglobin concentration in these red blood cells. The combination of low hematocrit and low hemoglobin results in diagnosis of anemia.
CBC testing for anemia and abnormalities of hematocrit is the same for all patients. However, what is low hematocrit and the resulting anemic diagnosis differs depending on gender and age. For example, newborns have a normal range of hematocrit 55-68%, regardless of gender. Alternatively, adult women who have gone through puberty represent a normal level of hematocrit between 38% and 46%, with 40% considered an average. Adult patients for men have an average of normal hematocrit around 45%.
In order to understand the results of CBC tests for hemoglobin, anemia and hematocrit, this process must be understood. The results are determined by centrifugation of the blood sample to divide the blood into layers; Red blood cells are packed in one layer, while white blood cells are wrapped in another. By analyzing the size of each layer in relation to the whole, laboratory technicians can determine the approximate concentration of red blood cells. Further testing of the estimateThe approximate size of each red blood cell is to determine the level of hemoglobin and if the diagnosis of anemia is guaranteed.
The causes of anemia differ greatly and may include injuries, kidney disease, malnutrition, arthritis and medical treatment such as chemotherapy. While anemia and hematocrit are interconnected in terms of diagnosis, hematocrit and hemoglobin tests cannot determine the exact cause of anemia. Instead, once the presence of anemia is determined by CBC testing, healthcare professionals must further explore to determine the specific cause of the condition.