RDW Blood Test: Interpreting Results and Understanding its Importance
By Dr. Nayana Shetty +2 more
Medically reviewed by Dr. Nayana Shetty
Last updated: Apr 17, 2024Click to rate this article!
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By Dr. Nayana Shetty +2 more
Medically reviewed by Dr. Nayana Shetty
Last updated: Apr 17, 2024Table of Contents
Red blood cell distribution width (RDW) is an important factor when it comes to understanding the health of your blood cells. An indicator of the variations in the size and volume of red blood cells, RDW plays a crucial role in diagnosing and differentiating various health conditions, including anaemia. In this article, we will discuss the purpose of the RDW blood test, how it is conducted, and how the results are interpreted. We will also delve into the significance of RDW in monitoring therapy progress, as well as the factors that may affect RDW values.
Did you know?
Red cell distribution width (RDW) is a crucial measure in blood tests. It shows how much the size and volume of red blood cells differ from each other. The job of these cells is to transport oxygen from the lungs to the different body parts. A non-normal RDW result might mean problems with body functions that affect oxygen flow. However, knowing about extra tools, like mean corpuscular volume (MCV), is key to understanding blood health.
Red blood cells usually stay at a size of 6 to 8 micrometers across. Higher RDW test results mean the sizes of cells vary more. In short, the higher the RDW results, the more diverse the sizes of red blood cells. It’s key to use RDW results with other blood tests, like the MCV, for a more accurate diagnosis.
RDW tests often go alongside a complete blood count (CBC). This test looks at the types, numbers, and traits of your blood cells. Included are red and white blood cells and platelets, haemoglobin levels, etc.
The main aim of RDW blood tests is to diagnose anaemia and its cause. The types of anaemia that are linked to different RDW results include iron lack anaemia, anaemia caused by a lack of B12 or folate, and others. Doctors can accurately diagnose the type of anaemia using the RDW test. This information is essential for making a good management plan.
Aside from anaemia, the RDW test can also point out the presence of other health problems, such as thalassaemia, diabetes, heart disease, liver disease, and cancer. Early spotting of these health problems means an early start to effective management.
RDW tests help in tracking the progress of therapies used for different health problems. For example, a falling RDW after starting anaemia management might show that the therapy is working and that all the red blood cells are returning to normal size.
An RDW blood test doesn’t need much preparation. However, if your healthcare provider adds other tests to the RDW in a complete blood count, you might need to fast or follow special instructions.
It’s key to follow any unique instructions given by your healthcare provider before an RDW test. Be sure to tell your doctor about any medications, supplements, or vitamins you’re taking. This information could impact the test results.
Depending on the results of your test, your doctor will design a treatment plan to increase the amount of oxygen your red blood cells can carry in case you have a chronic blood disorder, such as anaemia. Your provider may suggest iron supplements, medicines, and/or dietary changes based on your specific condition.
Dr. Siddharth Gupta, B.A.M.S, M.D
High RDW results might point to an underlying health problem, such as a lack of iron, folate, or B12. High RDW can also be linked to macrocytic anaemia, where the body does not make enough normal red blood cells. The leftover cells then grow larger than average. Microcytic anaemia, where red blood cells are smaller than normal, can also raise RDW.
A high RDW result could mean a raised risk of health issues. This includes heart disease, liver problems, and some cancers. A comprehensive look at RDW and other blood tests, like MCV, is needed to work out the best course of action.
Normal RDW results mean the red blood cells are typically the same in size and shape. However, even if the RDW results are normal, there could still be an underlying health concern. That’s why healthcare providers must consider other blood tests during a check-up before confirming any kind of diagnosis.
To keep RDW healthy, focus on a well-balanced diet packed with essential nutrients, regular workouts, and enough sleep, these may help.
No exact blood disorders is linked to a low RDW result. Yet, a low RDW shows that red blood cells are fairly the same in size and shape. This is often viewed as ideal for overall health.
A low RDW result doesn’t come with clear risks or worries. A consistently low RDW might mean overall good health, as long as there are no other symptoms or health issues.
Many studies have demonstrated a correlation between the baseline RDW value and long-term adverse events in both acute and chronic conditions, including peripheral artery disease, acute myocardial infarctions (MI), heart failures, stable angina, stroke, and angina.
Dr. Rajeev Singh, BAMS
As we get older, the size, shape, and spread of red blood cells may alter. This may lead to a rise in RDW values.
Lifestyle choices, like smoking too much, drinking alcohol, not exercising, and eating badly, might raise RDW values.
Several health issues, like long-term liver disease, kidney disease, heart disease, and inflammatory/autoimmune diseases, can affect RDW values.
Adding a balanced diet full of essential nutrients especially iron, vitamin B12, and folate may counter any deficiencies causing a high RDW.
Quitting smoking, lessening alcohol intake, getting regular exercise, and getting enough sleep may all help lower a raised RDW.
If there are any underlying health problems, they should be managed with the right medical management, as advised by healthcare providers. This may aid in controlling RDW values and keeping overall health in check.
Studies have shown that overall cancer mortality might be correlated with elevated RDW. RDW may be able to somewhat forecast cancer patients’ mortality risk.
Dr. Smita barode, B.A.M.S, M.S.
The other tests that can be combined with the RDW test to give more insight are as follows.
| Other Blood Tests | Importance |
| Mean Corpuscular Volume | Helps differentiate between types of anaemia |
| Red Blood Cell Count | Shows the quantity of red blood cells |
| Other Indices in CBC | Gives insights into overall health |
The RDW blood test is a key tool in examining the health of your red blood cells and diagnosing anaemia and other health issues. By understanding your RDW results and working with a healthcare provider, you can deal with any underlying health issues and keep healthy. Always remember, the RDW test is just one tool among many used to check overall health.
A high RDW might mean there’s an underlying issue including a lack of nutrients or various health problems like anaemia, autoimmune conditions, and liver or kidney disease. Make sure you discuss your RDW results with your healthcare provider to find the main cause and outline the right management plan.
A low RDW means that your red blood cells are pretty much the same in size and shape. This is often considered ideal for optimal health. This indicates no known blood problems are affecting your RDW test results.
While high RDW does not directly bring about fatigue, it could be due to anaemia or another health problem that leads to fatigue. If you have high RDW and feel tired, discuss your results and symptoms with your healthcare provider to find the main problem.
Certain cancers could lead to high RDW, including blood cancers like leukaemia, and lung and colon cancer. A raised RDW may also indicate a less favourable outcome for cancer patients. However, diagnosing cancer with just RDW alone is not possible. Extra tests and studies are needed for a firmed cancer diagnosis.
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