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Understanding RDW in Blood Test: A Comprehensive Guide
Blood Test
Mon Nov 06 2023
When you undergo a routine blood test you may come across various abbreviations and terms which can be confusing at times. One such term is RDW which stands for Red Blood Cell Distribution Width. RDW is an important parameter measured during a complete blood count (CBC) test. Let's dive into the meaning of RDW, its significance, and what abnormal results can indicate.
What is RDW?
RDW refers to the variation in the size of red blood cells (RBCs) in a blood sample. It measures the difference in volume of individual RBCs and provides insights into the distribution or heterogeneity of cell sizes. The RDW value is presented as a percentage reflecting the width of the histogram curve of RBC volume.
Significance of RDW:
The RDW value is primarily used to evaluate and diagnose various types of anemia. Anemia is a condition where the body lacks sufficient healthy red blood cells to carry an adequate amount of oxygen to the tissues. RDW helps in differentiating between different types of anemia.
1. Iron Deficiency Anemia: This is the most common type of anemia and is associated with a high RDW value. In this condition, the body lacks sufficient iron to produce healthy red blood cells leading to a wide variation in the size (anisocytosis) of RBCs.
2. Vitamin B12 Deficiency Anemia: This type of anemia is caused by a deficiency in vitamin B12 which is essential for the production of healthy red blood cells. It is characterized by macrocytic (larger than normal) RBCs and an elevated RDW.
3. Folate Deficiency Anemia: Similar to vitamin B12 deficiency anemia this condition is caused by a deficiency in folic acid. Like B12 deficiency it leads to macrocytic RBCs and an increased RDW.
4. Hemolytic Anemia: Hemolytic anemia is a condition where the breakdown of red blood cells exceeds their production. In this condition, the RDW value may be elevated due to the presence of both smaller RBCs (microcytic) and larger RBCs (macrocytic).
5. Blood Loss: If there is acute or chronic blood loss the body produces new RBCs rapidly. This can result in a wide range of RBC sizes and an increased RDW value.
Interpreting Abnormal RDW Results:
RDW value outside the normal range may indicate an underlying health condition and should be further investigated by a healthcare professional. A high RDW value suggests a varied range of RBC sizes while a low RDW value indicates a more uniform distribution.
It is essential to consider RDW in combination with other CBC parameters to determine the underlying cause accurately. Your healthcare provider will assess your complete blood count results and consider your medical history symptoms and additional tests if required.
RDW is an important parameter measured during a complete blood count test and provides valuable information about the variation in red blood cell sizes. It aids in the diagnosis and differentiation of various types of anemia. If you receive abnormal RDW results it is essential to consult a healthcare professional who will interpret the findings in the context of your overall health and additional diagnostic tests if necessary. Remember timely detection and treatment of anemia can help improve your overall well-being.
Manipal TRUtest provides comprehensive diagnostic services with assured quality, accuracy, and trust backed by 70 years of Manipal legacy. You can choose our Inhalation Allergy panel which offers detection of 33 allergens. Get Home Sample Collection and a well-qualified phlebotomist shall visit you at the comfort of your home.
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Here are five blood tests worth noting that can help highlight health issues early on.
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A Complete Blood Count, or CBC, is a standard test that looks at several components of your blood, such as red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. It can reveal infections, anemia, immune system disorders, and blood cancers.
Even if you feel fine, some health care providers suggest having a CBC once a year because it is part of a regular health screening. Diagnostic centers you trust, like manipaltrutest.com, offer fast, accurate, and high quality CBC tests to help you to be proactive about your health risks.
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Elevated blood glucose can lead to diabetes, which can eventually lead to heart, kidney, eye, and nerve damage if lost to detection. For example, a simple fasting blood sugar test or HbA1c test provides a picture of your blood sugar control through time.
Preventing long-term complications is possible if you are diagnosed early with a blood sugar test. It will allow you to make lifestyle changes or take treatment when necessary to lower your blood sugar. If you have a family history of diabetes, then it is even more important to have your blood sugars tested regularly.
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A lipid profile measures the levels of cholesterol and triglycerides in your blood. High cholesterol is a major risk factor for heart disease and stroke. This test checks your total cholesterol, good (HDL) cholesterol, bad (LDL) cholesterol, and triglycerides.
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The liver is an important organ needed for digesting food, storing energy, and removing toxins. A Liver Function Test (LFT) will check for enzymes and proteins that can indicate how well your liver is functioning. Abnormal test results can indicate infections such as hepatitis, liver damage from alcohol or other underlying medical conditions. A regular LFT is critical, as often liver problems do not manifest any symptoms in their early stages. Regardless of whether or not you feel any pain, having your liver function checked now and again gives you peace of mind and could save your life. For peace of mind, consider having this test done once a year.
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In today’s fast -paced world, health should always remain a priority. However, making the time to visit a diagnostic center can sometimes be difficult. That’s where Manipal TRUtest comes in providing you with the ease of booking a blood test from the comfort of your home in Mumbai. With this trusted platform, getting your health checked is now easier, safer and faster, than ever before.
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With years of experience, state of –the- arts technology, and a patient-first philosophy, the service guarantees that your health is always in the best hands. The home blood collection facility is designed to provide maximum comfort, with zero compromise on quality or hygiene.
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How Does the Home Sample Collection Work?
The process is designed to be simple and convenient. Once you have scheduled your test – either online or over the phone - a certified phlebotomist will arrive at your doorstep at the appointed time. They come fully prepared with sterilized kits and adhere to strict hygiene standards to ensure your safety. After collecting your sample, you’ll receive your reports online, eliminating the need to visit a diagnostic center.
The team behind this service is committed to making healthcare accessible for everyone. With a strong presence across Mumbai, assistance is just a call or click away.
Benefits of Booking a Blood Test from Home
- Convenience: Skip the travel and long queues. Book a test at your preferred time, all from the comfort of your home.
- Safety: Our phlebotomists follow strict hygiene practices, using gloves, masks, and sterilized equipment at all times.
- Detailed Reports: Advanced diagnostic technology ensures accurate and reliable test results you can trust.
- Affordable Pricing: Access premium diagnostic services at competitive rates—with no hidden charges.
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Booking a Test is Simple
- Visit www.manipaltrutest.com
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- Sit back and relax —we’ll take care of the rest!
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When it comes to healthcare, trust matters. Thousands of families across Mumbai rely on Manipal TRUtest for their diagnostic needs.
We’re honored to support you on your journey to better health and are committed to delivering consistent, convenient service every step of the way.
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Book a home blood test in Mumbai with Manipal TRUtest—your well-being is our top priority.

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When it comes to health, accuracy, reliability, and convenience are going to be paramount on your list of things that matters. Blood tests are an unavoidable and simple part of your medical care, acting as support for diagnosing and monitoring a variety of different diseases. There are lots of laboratories in Mumbai and it can be hard to know which laboratory to choose. Choosing the right laboratory is an important thing to decide, whether it is a routine check-up or a blood test ordered by your doctor, since it is necessary for your results to be accurate, you should find the best and reliable lab for diagnostics. Here is a useful checklist from which to make the process as simple as possible:
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First thing to check is whether the lab is accredited by a valid and respectable authority, such as NABL (National Accreditation Board for Testing and Calibration Laboratories). An accredited laboratory will be monitoring and acting in line with good quality standards, which can later lead into accurately providing outcomes. Manipal TRUtest is compliant with the national quality requirements, so you can be rest assured that our reports are accurate and true.
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A good diagnostic lab should offer a wide selection of tests under one roof—blood sugar, thyroid, lipid profile, vitamin levels, allergy tests, and more. Manipal TRUtest provides an extensive list of diagnostic services, so you don't need to visit multiple places for different tests. Whether it's a basic blood test or a complete health package, you'll find what you need in one place.
3. Consider Turnaround Time for Reports
In many cases, timely results are crucial for starting treatment or taking preventive measures. Choose a lab that promises quick, yet accurate reporting. Manipal TRUtest uses modern technology to process samples swiftly while maintaining accuracy, with digital reports delivered within the promised time frame.
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In today's busy world, convenience matters. A lab that offers home sample collection can save your time and effort, especially for senior citizens, working professionals, or those recovering from illness. Manipal TRUtest provides home collection across Mumbai, ensuring safe and hygienic sample handling right at your doorstep.
5. Evaluate Staff Experience and Professionalism
Lab technician and support staff skills and behaviour are also vital to your overall experience. The professional, trained staff makes the process more comfortable and easier. Manipal TRUtest has trained and certified technicians and customer care teams who make each step with professionalism.
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Price is a consideration, but not at the cost of quality. Choose a lab that has transparent pricing with no extra or hidden charges. Manipal TRUtest explicitly mentions test prices on its website, along with discounts and health packages offered to reduce the cost of preventive care.
7. Accessibility and Location
Easy access is important when you need to visit the lab. Manipal TRUtest has numerous branches and collection centres across Mumbai, making it simple to find one near your home or office. You can reduce wasting time, also schedule tests online or over a call.
8. Read Customer Reviews
Before decision-making, look at what other people have to say. Reviews can provide feedback on the quality of services, the behaviour of staff, and general satisfaction. Manipal TRUtest has been trusted by thousands for its stable performance and patient-centricity.
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Your health is the most important wealth you have. By opting for a lab that fulfils all the important requirements, you are making a wise decision towards improved health and mental satisfaction. At Manipal TRUtest, precise results, quality service, and a trouble-free experience are what you can look forward to.
Visit www.manipaltrutest.com to book your tests today and take control of your well-being.