Red Blood Cell (RBC) Morphology Screening Panel with Specific Red Cell Ratio Analysis
This test evaluates the shape, size, and distribution of red blood cells, as well as certain ratios that help identify potential blood disorders.
["This screening helps detect abnormalities in red blood cells that may signal conditions like anemia or blood disorders."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 74625-5
- Short code
- DMA 16:0/C16:0 RBC-sRto
- Synonyms
- DMA 16:0/C16:0 RBC-sRto
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- whole-blood
- Container
- Lavender-top (EDTA)
- 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
- 3 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h
- Hemolysis max
- 0
- Lipemia max
- 0
- Icterus max
- 0
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
What This Test Measures
The test includes a general red blood cell morphology screen, which examines the overall appearance and characteristics of your red blood cells. Specific ratios of red blood cells to other blood components may also be analyzed to identify imbalances.
Why It Matters in Your Health
Abnormal red blood cell shapes or ratios can indicate underlying health issues, such as genetic disorders, infections, or chronic diseases. Early detection can guide treatment decisions.
Common Conditions Monitored
This screening may help identify conditions like hereditary spherocytosis, elliptocytosis, or other inherited blood disorders. It can also assist in diagnosing conditions affecting red blood cell production or survival.
Sample Collection and Preparation
A small blood sample is drawn from a vein, typically in your arm. The sample is processed to analyze red blood cell characteristics and ratios without additional preparation needed by you.
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 red blood cell morphology test involve?
Results are typically available within a few days to a week, depending on your lab’s processing schedule. Follow-up with your healthcare provider to discuss findings and next steps.
The most common discomfort is a slight pinch or bruising at the needle insertion site. Most people experience minimal or no pain. Rarely, there may be mild swelling or redness.
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