This article will discuss the Packed Cell Volume. We will also address some common questions related to the Packed Cell Volume test.
What is the Packed Cell Volume Test
A packed cell volume or PCV test is a serological test that provides a detailed assessment of RBC (Red Blood Cells) in the human body. It is conducted to determine the blood volume and O2 (Oxygen) carrying capacity of the red blood cells, It is generally done alongside the routine complete blood test i.e. (CBC).
What is the Purpose of Packed Cell Volume Test?
The purpose of this test is to measure the percentage of RBCs in the bloodstream. It is usually performed to diagnose or rule out blood conditions like “Anemia” or “Polycythemia” in patients. In some cases, the doctor also may recommend a PCV hematocrit test to determine or evaluate the patient’s response to blood transfusion or determine the effectiveness of treatment for certain conditions.
Preparations for Packed Cell Volume Test –
For the PCV blood test, there are no restrictions on a person’s diet as it falls under a routine blood test, therefore no fasting is required for a person to get this test done, as same as the normal blood test sample is collected from a person using a test tube and sterile needle and then sent to the labs for testing phase which then is further analysed by the professionals to determine the results of a person.
Range of Packed Cell Volume Test –
These tests are normally shown in a percentile range, If the range shows 50% it means that in 100ml of blood, RBC occupies 50ml by volume. Any increase or decrease in this volume may indicate that a person may be suffering from many conditions or some problems which may or may not be chronic
- 38% - 52% for Males.
- 34% - 54% for Females.
Low PCV in Packed Cell Volume Test –
If the PCV level is below the average recommended range it may be due to several different reasons “Anemia” and “Blood loss” are very commonly associated with low PCV count. Anaemia may be caused by many conditions which may include vitamin deficiency or mineral deficiency or in some cases chronic illness. Many factors can contribute to low PCV levels like –
- Vitamin B12 Deficiency.
- Kidney Disorders.
- Mineral Deficiency.
- Inflammatory Diseases.
- Hemolysis.
High PCV in Packed Cell Volume Test –
High PCV in tests is often caused by various conditions like dehydration or polycythemia. Dehydration is often caused by loss of bodily fluids mainly by drinking less water than required or in some cases sweating heavily and then not drinking enough water. Polycythemia is a condition where there is an excess of RBC compared to the moral test range results, it may occur due to several reasons sometimes it may be genetic or in some common cases due to a person’s smoking habits. High PCV may also indicate Lung diseases.
Why PCV is lower in females –
Adolescent females generally have low mean haemoglobin concentration in their bloodstream compared to males. This is the leading case of low PCV levels in females and in other cases, pregnancy also is known to reduce the PCV level in females due to the presence of extra body fluids in their body.
How to increase PCV in blood tests –
There are various factors including lifestyle and demography which contribute to
individual’s hematocrit level if the PCV results are low and a person has to increase it in order to maintain healing it can be done by –
- Taking various supplements like iron, Vitamin B12 and folic acid.
- Treatment includes blood transfusions, Bone transplants, Pain relief medication and some Oxygen treatment.
- Taking foods that are rich in Iron, vitamin B12, Vitamin A and Folic acid. Consider having more vegetables like green leafy veggies, nuts, chocolate, whole grain and dairy products.
- Stay adequately hydrated, engage in regular exercise and maintain reduced alcohol intake.
Conclusion –
The normal treatment for low PCV test involves a multi-level approach which includes multiple options like supplements and if the more intensive approach is taken sometimes transfusion and transplant. If the levels are high then it can also be reduced through various treatments or regular exercise. If the range is normal it clearly states a person a healthy and is maintaining a proper lifestyle.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) –
What happens if the PCV test is low?
If the test results show low PCV then it is recommended to consult a doctor before taking any medication and following up with the treatment which is determined by the doctor.
What are the symptoms of High PCV?
Lack of energy, Fatigue, Weakness, Shortness of breath, Visual disturbance, Nose bleeds, bleeding gums, heavy menstrual period and bruising.
What causes PCV to increase?
It indicates high RBC concentration may be due to dehydration, lung, heart or bone marrow diseases.
What method is used to detect PCV?
A packed cell volume test is used to determine the PCV range in a patient.
Why is the PCV test important?
It is used to determine or diagnose if the person is suffering from blood conditions like “anaemia” or “polycythemia”.
What is the cost of the PCV test in Delhi?
The cost of PCV in Delhi ranges from INR 75 to INR 200 depending on the laboratory and location.
