Hematocrit Levels Quiz

Hematocrit (PCV or HCT)

• Hematocrit measures the percentage of red blood cells (RBCs) in blood.
• Blood is mostly red blood cells and white blood cells suspended in serum (a clear fluid).
• The hematocrit test shows the percentage of blood volume composed of red blood cells.

Normal Hematocrit Values

• Normal hematocrit levels vary by sex.
• Men: 41% to 50%
• Women: 35% to 50%

Low Hematocrit (Anemia)

• A low hematocrit means the percentage of red blood cells is below normal limits for the person's age, sex, or specific condition (like pregnancy or high altitude).
• Causes include:
  • Bleeding (ulcers, trauma, colon cancer, internal bleeding)
  • Destruction of red blood cells (sickle cell anemia, enlarged spleen)
  • Reduced red blood cell production (bone marrow suppression, cancer, drugs)
  • Nutritional deficiencies (low iron, B12, folate, malnutrition)

High Hematocrit

• A high hematocrit means the percentage of red blood cells is above the normal limits for the person's age, sex, or specific condition.
• Causes include:
  • Dehydration (heat exhaustion, lack of fluids)
  • Low oxygen availability (smoking, high altitude, lung conditions)
  • Genetic conditions (congenital heart problems)
  • Overproduction of red blood cells (polycythemia vera, bone marrow issues)
  • Conditions affecting the lungs (COPD, chronic sleep apnea, pulmonary embolisms)

Test your knowledge on hematocrit values and their significance in health. This quiz covers normal hematocrit levels, factors affecting low and high readings, and conditions related to red blood cell counts. Perfect for students studying biology or healthcare-related fields.