RDW is the acronym for Red Cell Distribution Width, which in Portuguese means Red Blood Distribution Range, and which evaluates the variation in size between red blood cells, this variation is called anisocytosis.
Therefore, when the value is high in the blood formula, it means that red blood cells are larger than normal and can be seen in the blood smear very large and very small red blood cells.When the value is below the reference value, it is generally of no clinical importance, only if, in addition to the RDW, other indices are also below the normal value, such as CMV, for example.Understand what VCM is.
- RDW is one of the parameters that make up the blood formula and.
- With the rest of the information provided by the test.
- It is possible to check the blood cell production and the general condition of the person.
- When the result of rdW is affected.
- Certain situations.
- Such as anemia.
- Diabetes or liver problems.
- May be suspected.
- Which should be diagnosed from the analysis of the complete blood formula and biochemical tests.
- Learn how to read other blood formula values.
The reference value of RDW in the blood formula is 11 to 14%, however, this result may vary by lab, so if the value is greater than or less than this percentage, it may have different meanings and therefore it is always important that the value be evaluated by the doctor who ordered the test.
Anisocytosis is the term that occurs when RDW increases, and in the blood smear a large variation in size can be observed between red blood cells, which can increase in certain situations, such as:
In addition, people undergoing chemotherapy or antiviral therapy may also have an increase in RDW.
Low RDW is generally of no clinical importance when interpreted in isolation, however, if other changes in blood count are observed, it may indicate anemia caused by a chronic disease, such as liver disease, kidney problems, HIV, cancer or diabetes, for example..
This test is usually requested for suspected anemia, when symptoms such as dizziness, fatigue, or pale skin occur, such as discovering the main symptoms of anemia.
However, your doctor may also prescribe the test when you have or have had:
Sometimes this test can even be ordered in a routine blood test, without any specific cause.
For the blood count to be performed and therefore RDW is not required to fast.However, a complete blood count is usually requested along with other blood tests that require a fast of at least 8 hours.
Blood collection usually takes less than 5 minutes and is easily done in the hospital or at any test clinic with a small sample of blood drawn from the vein.