What is rdw test




















Results of the test, along with those of other blood tests, can help doctors to confirm the presence of anemia , a condition characterized by a lack of red blood cells.

The red cell distribution width RDW test can also help to determine the underlying cause of anemia. Also, a study in suggested that the test can be a strong predictor of mortality in people over the age of In this article, we describe what the RDW test is and how to prepare for it.

We also explore the outlooks for people with results in various ranges. The RDW test shows the difference in size between the smallest and largest red blood cells in a sample. Problems with hemoglobin can affect the flow of oxygen throughout the body, as can the size, shape, and health of red blood cells. This can result in a range of health problems. RDW test results may be higher if more cells are larger or smaller than normal. This can suggest the presence of an underlying condition.

However, not all conditions affect RDW. If the results of a CBC show low levels of red blood cells or hemoglobin, this usually suggests anemia. Doctors will then try to determine the cause of the condition using the RDW and other tests. Having a RDW test requires no special preparation.

Red Blood Cell Distribution Width blood test shows the variation in size and volume of your red blood cells. Red blood cells RBC , one of the major components of our blood, carries oxygen from lungs to various parts of your body. Your cells require oxygen to remain healthy, grow and reproduce. Your RDW blood test results can be higher if your RBCs are smaller or larger than normal, which indicates that you have an underlying condition.

If the RDW value is outside the normal range, it can be a sign of a problem with body function, which may affect the flow of oxygen from the lungs to parts of your body. Even if you have normal RDW, you may have certain diseases. Since a person with normal RDW can still have an underlying condition, doctors may take into consideration the results of other blood tests as well. An RDW blood test is typically used to diagnose anaemia and different conditions such as:. Before you undergo an RDW blood test, you will be asked to fast by your doctor for a few hours, based on the other tests that you need to take.

Before the test, your doctor may give you special instructions. Contact a health care provider if you have questions about your health. What is a red cell distribution width test?

What is it used for? The RDW test may also be used to diagnose: Other blood disorders such as thalassemia , an inherited disease that can cause severe anemia Medical conditions such as heart disease , diabetes , liver disease , and cancer , especially colorectal cancer. Why do I need an RDW test? What happens during an RDW test? Will I need to do anything to prepare for the test? Are there any risks to the test?

What do the results mean? This combination of results can provide a more complete picture of the health of your red blood cells and can help diagnose a variety of conditions, including: Iron deficiency Different types of anemia Thalassemia Sickle cell anemia Chronic liver disease Kidney disease Colorectal Cancer Most likely your doctor will need further tests to confirm a diagnosis.

Is there anything else I need to know about a red cell distribution width test? Biomed Research International [Internet]. Keep reading to learn why having a high RDW is bad and how to improve your values. A normal red blood cell is shaped like a disk with a depressed center. It is very flexible, which enables it to change shape — this is needed for a red blood cell to squeeze through the narrowest of blood vessels called capillaries [ 1 ].

Normally, red blood cells are relatively equal in shape and size. However, in some conditions and diseases, red blood cells can have a distorted shape or be smaller or larger than normal while still maintaining their core function oxygen and carbon dioxide transport [ 1 ]. Basically, it tells you how equal or unequal your red blood cells are in size.

It is a part of a complete blood count, which also measures your hemoglobin , hematocrit , and red and white blood cell counts [ 2 , 3 ]. Low values mean that your red blood cells are roughly similar in size, which is normal and desirable. Higher values mean that your red blood cells are produced in different sizes.

In other words, there is some issue with red blood cell production or survival [ 2 , 3 , 4 ]. RDW normally ranges from The range may slightly vary between laboratories. Your doctor will interpret your results in conjunction with your medical history and other test results. 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 ]. A high RDW means that your red blood cells are unequal in size. This condition is called anisocytosis [ 2 , 3 ]. Causes listed below are commonly associated with high RDW. If your RDW is high, work with your doctor or another health care professional to get an accurate diagnosis. This happens because all of these nutrients are needed to produce healthy red blood cells.



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