Total RBC

Specimen Required

3cc EDTA BLOOD (CBC VIAL)

Fasting Required

Purpose of the Test

To evaluate any change in the number of red blood cells in your blood

When this test is required

A RBC count is normally requested as a part of the full blood count (FBC), which may be requested for many different reasons.

What the Test Detects

This test counts the number of red blood cells (RBC) in a litre of blood. Red blood cells, which are made in the bone marrow, carry oxygen from the lungs to the cells and transport carbon dioxide from the cells to the lungs. Women tend to have lower RBC counts than men, and levels tend to decrease with age. When the value decreases by more than 10% of the expected normal value, the patient is said to be anaemic.How is the sample collected for testing?The test is performed on a blood sample taken by a needle placed in a vein in the arm or by a finger-prick (for children and adults) or heel-prick (for newborns).Is any test preparation needed to ensure the quality of the sample?No test preparation is needed.See MoreSee Less

Preparation for the Test

Keep well hydrated by drinking fluids one to two days prior to blood collection

Sample Requirements

A blood sample taken from a vein in your arm or by a finger-prick (children and adults) or heel-prick (newborns)

Additional Notes

Normal decreases in red blood cells are seen during pregnancy as a result of normal body fluid increases that dilute them.Living at high altitudes causes an increase in RBC counts—this is your body’s response to the decreased oxygen available at these heights.

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