What is normal PCV in a blood test?

The PCV test value is either expressed as a percentage or fraction. A normal PCV range in a blood test is: Males: 38.3 to 48.6% Females: 35.5 to 44.9% The above values indicate the proportion of cells in the blood. For example, 38.3% to 48.6% means 40 ml of cells in 100 ml of blood.

Yashoda Hospitals > Diagnostics > PCV Test

What is a PCV Test?

A PCV (Packed Cell Volume) Test is done to diagnose anemia or polycythemia in patients. It is generally done along with a full blood count test that is conducted to estimate the need for any blood transfusions and monitor the response to the blood transfusion treatment.

Blood is a mix of plasma as well as cells. The PCV test can measure how much of the blood consists of cells. If the PCV results show a reading of 50%, it denotes that 50 ml of cells is present in exactly 100 ml of blood. If the RBC (Red Blood Cell) number increases, then the total reading of the PCV will also be up. This number can also increase due to dehydration.

With three decades of service, Yashoda Hospitals provide the majority of health-related medical tests at reasonable prices with qualified professionals and advanced equipment. Book an appointment today for all your health needs!

Not sure which doctor to consult? Use the filters below

Book Appointment

Online Video Consultation

Find a Doctor

Health Packages

Need Any Medical Help?

Talk to Our Health Care Experts!

Need Any Medical Help?

Have any Questions?

Why Choose Yashoda Hospitals

Yashoda Hospitals is committed to providing world-class treatment for patients from across the globe. With the unique combination of state-of-the-art technology, intuitive care, and clinical excellence, we are the healthcare destination for thousands of international patients in India.

Comprehensive Care

On the journey to good health, we understand that it is important for you to feel at home. We plan out all aspects of your trip.

Expert Doctors

Experienced specialists perform non-invasive and minimally invasive surgeries to provide the best treatment for international patients.

Cutting-Edge Technology

Our hospitals are equipped with advanced technology to perform a wide range of procedures and treatments.

Clinical Excellence

We deliver excellence by delivering quick and efficient healthcare and through pioneering research that helps all our future.patients.

References

Frequently Asked Questions

A PCV or Packed Cell Volume Test, is a general blood screening done to diagnose dehydration (low body fluids or blood volume), polycythemia (high level of red blood cells), or anemia (low levels of red blood cells) in certain patients. PCV estimates the portion of blood made up of cells and is prescribed by a medical professional after noticing the patient's condition and symptoms.

A lower number of the PCV means that the red blood cell count is less, which can be due to many reasons such as blood loss, cell destruction, and less bone marrow production. An increased PCV generally means that the person is dehydrated, and there is a higher number of RBC production.

The PCV test is a part of the full blood count and estimates the percentage or fraction of cells in the blood. If your doctor suspects that you have anemia, i.e. low level of red blood cells, polycythemia, i.e. high level of red blood cells, or dehydration, i.e. low body fluids or blood volume, they may advise this test.

A blood sample is taken with the help of a needle, generally from a vein in your arm. The site may feel tender to you for some time, but there are no long-term effects, and you'll be able to do your normal activities afterwards.

The packed cell volume is a measurement of the proportion of blood that is made up of cells. The value is expressed as a percentage. For example, a PCV of 40% means that there are 40 millilitres of cells in 100 millilitres of blood.

The PCV test value is either expressed as a percentage or fraction. A normal PCV range in a blood test is:

Males: 38.3 to 48.6%
Females: 35.5 to 44.9%

The above values indicate the proportion of cells in the blood. For example, 38.3% to 48.6% means 40 ml of cells in 100 ml of blood.

The normal PCV range in pregnant females is 33-38%. This lower than average PCV range in pregnancy is due to high fluid levels in the blood during pregnancy. In some cases, the PCV value of 30% (mild anemia) is also observed.

The human blood comprises cells and plasma. In adolescent females, the level of mean hemoglobin concentration/blood cells is lower as compared to males. This is the reason why the value of PCV is lower in females.

A low PCV implies that the patient has a low number of red blood cells and is suffering from anemia. The doctor may need further test reports of the patient to know the underlying causes of anemia so that the treatment can be given accordingly.

A normal range of PCV generally depends on the person taking the test. In females, the normal range is 35.5 to 44.9%. In males, 38.3% to 48.6% is the normal PCV range. For pregnant females, the normal PCV is 33-38%. In some cases of pregnancy, the PCV is 30% as well.