How reports print it
RBCErythrocytesRed blood cell countКоличество эритроцитов
What it shows
The number of red blood cells — the cells that carry oxygen — in one litre of blood.
Units and conversion
Base unit: ×10¹²/L.
- 1 ×10⁶/µL = 1 ×10¹²/L
Typical ranges
Your laboratory’s range comes first — it is printed on the report next to the result. Below is one laboratory’s adult range with its method: a reference, not a rule.
| Who | Range, ×10¹²/L |
|---|---|
| Men, 18–44 years | 4.3–5.7 |
| Women, 18–44 years | 3.8–5.1 |
| Men, 45–65 years | 4.2–5.6 |
| Women, 45–65 years | 3.8–5.3 |
| Men, 66 years and older | 3.8–5.8 |
| Women, 66 years and older | 3.8–5.2 |
Range source: Лаборатория Хеликс — Общий анализ крови (без лейкоцитарной формулы и СОЭ)
Good to know
«×10¹²/L» and «×10⁶/µL» are the same: 4.5 ×10⁶/µL = 4.5 ×10¹²/L.
Why it can be higher
Common reasons discussed with a doctor. This is not a diagnosis.
- Dehydration
- Smoking
- Living at high altitude
- Lung and heart conditions that leave tissues short of oxygen
Why it can be lower
- Blood loss
- Low iron, B12 or folate
- Pregnancy
- Other types of anaemia — a doctor looks into them
What to ask a doctor
- How do red cells fit with haemoglobin and MCV?
- Is a repeat test needed?
Whom to see
A GP or internist.