Red Blood Cell (RBC) Morphology Qualitative Screen
This test examines the shape, size, and appearance of red blood cells (RBCs) to identify any abnormalities that might suggest conditions like anemia, infections, or blood disorders.
["A simple blood check to spot unusual RBC shapes that could signal health concerns."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 1009-0
- Short code
- Deprecated DAT Poly-Sp Reag RBC Ql
- Synonyms
- Deprecated DAT Poly-Sp Reag RBC Ql
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 4.2
- Ref high
- 5.9
- Critical range
- 2 N/A – 7 N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- CPT
- 85041
- SNOMED
- 900000000000003001
- Specimen volume
- 5 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
Why This Test Is Done
Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms like fatigue, pale skin, unusual bruising, or unexplained bleeding. It can also be part of routine blood work or when investigating conditions like anemia, bleeding disorders, or infections.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. You’ll have a small needle inserted into your arm to draw a small amount of blood. The process takes just a few minutes. If you’re nervous, let your provider know—they can offer comfort measures.
What the Results Mean
The test is qualitative, meaning it identifies whether abnormalities are present rather than measuring exact values. Common findings include spherocytes (small, round RBCs), elliptocytes (oval-shaped), or fragmented cells (schistocytes), which may signal conditions like hemolytic anemia or thrombotic microangiopathy.
Common Conditions Linked to Abnormal RBCs
Abnormal RBC shapes can point to conditions such as hereditary spherocytosis, elliptocytosis, autoimmune hemolytic anemia, or severe infections. Your provider will discuss findings with you and may recommend further testing or treatments based on your symptoms and lab results.
Reference range
Adult males: 4.2-5.9; Females: 3.8-5.1 x 10^12/LN/A
No special preparation required. Stay well hydrated.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
RBC Morphology Screen
Frequently asked questions
What does a positive result mean for my health?
Can I avoid this test if I don’t have symptoms?
How long will it take to get my results?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 17, 2026. · Read our editorial policy