RB in a blood test typically refers to Red Blood Cells (RBCs). A red blood cell count measures the number of red blood cells in your blood.
Understanding Red Blood Cells (RBCs)
Red blood cells, also known as erythrocytes, are vital components of your blood. Their primary function is to transport oxygen from your lungs to the rest of your body's tissues and organs. This is achieved through hemoglobin, an iron-rich protein within the RBCs that binds to oxygen.
Importance of RBC Count
The RBC count is an important indicator of your overall health. Too many or too few RBCs can signal various underlying medical conditions.
- High RBC Count (Polycythemia): Can be caused by dehydration, lung disease, kidney tumors, or genetic factors.
- Low RBC Count (Anemia): Can be caused by iron deficiency, vitamin deficiencies, blood loss, chronic diseases, or bone marrow problems.
What the RBC Test Measures
The RBC test specifically measures the following:
- Number of red blood cells: Expressed as cells per microliter (µL) of blood.
- Hemoglobin (Hgb): The amount of oxygen-carrying protein in red blood cells, expressed as grams per deciliter (g/dL).
- Hematocrit (Hct): The percentage of blood volume made up of red blood cells.
These measurements, along with other red blood cell indices, provide a comprehensive picture of your red blood cell health. A doctor interprets these results in conjunction with your medical history and other test results to diagnose potential conditions.
