Red Blood Cell Morphology Profile (Quantitative, Microcytometry-Based)
This test evaluates the size, shape, and distribution of red blood cells (RBCs) using microscopic analysis to identify abnormalities that may indicate underlying blood disorders.
["Assessing RBC shape and size helps diagnose conditions like anemia or blood disorders."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 53974-2
- Short code
- RBC morph UrnS Micro-Imp
- Synonyms
- RBC morph UrnS Micro-Imp
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- urine
- Container
- Sterile urine container
- 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
- Method
- microscopy-light
- CPT
- 85041
- SNOMED
- 900000000000003001
- Specimen volume
- 10 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 2h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
- Hemolysis max
- 0
- Lipemia max
- 0
- Icterus max
- 0
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
What This Test Measures
The test examines various characteristics of red blood cells, including mean corpuscular volume (MCV), mean corpuscular hemoglobin (MCH), and red cell distribution width (RDW). These measurements help determine whether RBCs are smaller, larger, or more varied in size and shape than usual.
Common Conditions Evaluated
Abnormal RBC morphology can signal conditions such as iron deficiency anemia, thalassemia, or other inherited blood disorders. It may also be used to assess response to treatments or identify subtle changes in blood health.
Preparation for the Test
No special preparation is needed for this test. A simple blood draw from your arm is typically sufficient. If you’re on blood-thinning medication or have a history of bleeding disorders, let your provider know.
How the Results Are Used
Your healthcare provider will review these results alongside other blood tests to diagnose or monitor conditions like anemia, infections, or metabolic disorders. They may also check for signs of bone marrow issues or other systemic diseases.
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.
Abnormal RBC morphology can indicate a range of conditions, from mild nutritional deficiencies to more serious inherited blood disorders. For example, microcytic (smaller) RBCs may suggest iron deficiency, while macrocytic (larger) RBCs could point to vitamin B12 or folate deficiencies. High RDW may signal anemia or other blood disorders requiring further investigation.
Frequently asked questions
What does an abnormal RBC morphology test mean?
Will I need more tests if this result is abnormal?
How often should I get 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