PCV (haematocrit) test
Quick answer: The PCV or haematocrit measures the share of your blood that is made up of red blood cells. It is used to check for anaemia, dehydration or too many red cells, and to follow dengue.
- SampleBlood
- TakesAbout 5 minutes
- Before the testNo special preparation is usually needed.
How the test is done
- 1Blood is drawn from a vein or by finger prick
- 2The blood fills a thin tube or goes into an analyser
- 3The tube is spun so the red cells settle at the bottom
- 4The red cell column is read as a percentage of the total
What your results can mean
Reading your report
Ranges differ by sex and in pregnancy, and dehydration can raise the result; discuss it with your doctor.
If the result is outside the usual range
A low PCV can point to anaemia, bleeding or extra fluid in the blood. A high PCV can be seen with dehydration, smoking, lung disease, polycythaemia or plasma leak in dengue.
Who usually has this test
People with anaemia, dehydration or dengue, and some people before procedures.
Risks and aftercare
A small bruise or a sore fingertip is possible for a short time.
Names and options
Also called: PCV, haematocrit, HCT, packed cell volume
Listed by the hospital as
- PCV (HAEMATOCRIT), EDTA BLOOD
Questions about this test
What is the difference between PCV and haematocrit?
They are two names for the same measurement. Both mean the share of blood made up of red cells.
Can PCV be high in dengue?
Yes, a rising PCV in dengue can show plasma leaking from blood vessels. It needs close watching by your doctor.
Does living at high altitude affect PCV?
Yes, the body makes more red cells at high altitude, so PCV can be higher. Doctors take this into account when reading results.
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Tamara Hospital & IVF Centre, Rajajinagar
34/3, 10th Cross Road, opp. Vardhaka Sardar Patel School, 1st N Block, 2nd Stage, Rajajinagar, Bengaluru 560010
The hospital is open 24 hours. Call before you come to check the timing for your scan or sample collection.
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This page explains each test in general terms so you know what to expect. It is not medical advice: your doctor decides which tests you need and what your results mean. Reference ranges differ between laboratories. Updated 4 November 2026.