What does RDW mean on lab results?
A red cell distribution width (RDW) test is a measurement of the range in the volume and size of your red blood cells (erythrocytes). Red blood cells move oxygen from your lungs to every cell in your body.
What does it mean when your RDW is outside the normal range?
Anything outside of the normal range in red blood cell width or volume indicates a possible problem with bodily function that in turn may affect oxygen getting to various parts of your body. However, with certain diseases, you may still have a normal RDW.
What should my RDW results be for my child?
The normal red blood cell distribution width in children will be slightly different. The RDW test results for children should be between 12% and 14% depending on their age.
What are the risks of taking a RDW blood test?
There are minimal risks associated with an RDW blood test. You may experience slight pain or bruise in the puncture site, but these symptoms quickly go away. Results show the variation in your Red Blood Cell’s size and volume in your blood sample. The test results show normal RDW or high RDW, and the ranges differ.
What does normal RDW and low MCV mean?
People with normal results may still have anemia caused by a chronic medical condition or blood loss. Normal RDW and low MCV. This combination may indicate anemia caused by a chronic condition or thalassemia. Normal RDW and high MCV. This can indicate a liver condition or alcohol abuse.
Is it normal to have low RDW levels?
A low value indicates that your red blood cells are uniform in size. This is desirable and not a cause for concern [ 3 ]. However, it is still possible to have a blood-related disease and low RDW levels [ 3 ].
The normal red blood cell distribution width in children will be slightly different. The RDW test results for children should be between 12% and 14% depending on their age.
What does RDW stand for in blood count?
2 Answers. • RDW. RDW is an abbreviation and stands for Red Blood Cell Distribution Width. RDW calculates the different sizes of red blood cell volume in a sample of blood, and is usually carried out as part of a complete blood count (CBC). • Normal range of reference for a RDW.
When do MCV and RDW levels are high?
In case of acute blood loss or a hemorrhage that has occurred recently, the levels of RDW are high, while the MCV levels are maintained within normal range.