Serum or plasma measurement of substance concentration for red blood cell components (e.g., hemoglobin, hematocrit, or red blood cell indices)
This test measures specific substances in your red blood cells, often used to assess blood health, anemia, or other blood-related conditions.
["Helps diagnose and monitor blood disorders by evaluating red blood cell components."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 76351-6
- Short code
- MTX-PGs RBC-sCnc
- Synonyms
- MTX-PGs RBC-sCnc
- 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
This test evaluates the concentration of certain substances within your red blood cells, which can include proteins, enzymes, or other biomarkers. The exact substances measured may vary depending on the laboratory’s specific protocol. Common analytes might include hemoglobin, hematocrit, or red blood cell indices like mean corpuscular volume (MCV).
Why It’s Ordered
Your healthcare provider may order this test to investigate symptoms such as fatigue, pale skin, unusual bruising, or unexplained anemia. It can also be part of routine blood work to monitor chronic conditions like kidney disease, liver disease, or certain cancers.
Common Uses
This test is often used to diagnose or monitor conditions affecting red blood cells, such as iron deficiency, vitamin deficiencies (e.g., B12 or folate), or blood disorders like sickle cell disease. It may also help assess the effectiveness of treatments for blood-related conditions.
Sample Collection and Preparation
A blood sample is typically drawn from a vein in your arm. The blood is processed to separate the red blood cells from other components, and the serum or plasma is analyzed for the target substances. You may be asked to fast or avoid certain foods before the test, depending on the specific instructions from your provider.
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.
This test plays a critical role in diagnosing and managing blood disorders by providing detailed information about the composition and health of red blood cells. Elevated or low levels of certain substances can indicate underlying issues, such as anemia, infections, or metabolic disorders. Early detection and monitoring through this test can guide treatment decisions and improve patient outcomes.
Short name
RBC Component Substance Concentration
Frequently asked questions
What does this test involve?
How long does it take to get results?
Can I eat or drink before this test?
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