The term "packed red cell volume" refers to the volume of red blood cells in a given unit of blood. When blood is centrifuged, the red blood cells settle at the bottom, forming a "pack." The volume of this pack is then measured to determine the packed red cell volume. In IPA phonetic transcription, the word is spelled /pækt ˈrɛd sɛl ˈvɑlyum/, with stress on the first syllable of "packed" and the second syllable of "volume."
The term "Packed Red Cell Volume" refers to a clinical measurement used to determine the proportion of red blood cells in a given volume of blood. Also known as hematocrit or packed cell volume (PCV), it is an essential component of a complete blood count (CBC) test. Packed Red Cell Volume quantifies the percentage of red blood cells in relation to the total blood volume.
To determine the Packed Red Cell Volume, a sample of blood is collected and then subjected to a process called centrifugation. During centrifugation, the blood sample is spun at high speeds, causing the components to separate based on their density. As a result, the red blood cells, being heavier than the other blood components, settle at the bottom of the tube.
The Packed Red Cell Volume is determined by measuring the height of the red blood cell layer in the centrifuged tube, referred to as the "packed cell volume." This value is then expressed as a percentage of the total blood volume. For example, a Packed Red Cell Volume of 40% indicates that 40% of the patient's blood volume is occupied by red blood cells.
The Packed Red Cell Volume is a crucial parameter as it provides valuable insights into a person's overall health. Abnormal values may indicate conditions such as anemia (low Packed Red Cell Volume), dehydration, or polycythemia (high Packed Red Cell Volume). It is commonly used by healthcare professionals to diagnose and monitor various health conditions, guide treatment decisions, and assess a patient's response to therapy.