Hematocrit

Definition

Hematocrit is the percentage of red blood cells (RBCs) in a given volume of blood, measured as part of a complete blood count. It provides important information about the body's ability to transport oxygen and indicates potential health issues like anemia or polycythemia.

Related terms

Red Blood Cells (RBCs): These are cells in the blood that carry oxygen from the lungs to the rest of the body and return carbon dioxide back to the lungs for exhalation.

Anemia: A condition characterized by a lower than normal number of red blood cells or hemoglobin in the blood, leading to reduced oxygen transport.

Polycythemia: A health condition characterized by an increased level of circulating red blood cells in the bloodstream, which can thicken the blood and slow its flow