Red Blood Cell Morphology Examination (Microscopic Analysis)
This test examines the shape, size, and overall health of your red blood cells under a microscope. It helps identify abnormalities that may signal conditions like anemia, infections, or other blood disorders.
["Assessing red blood cell health can reveal hidden blood problems that may require further testing or treatment."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 43245-0
- Short code
- RBC # Smn Micro
- Synonyms
- RBC # Smn Micro
- 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
- Method
- microscopy-light
- 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
What Does This Test Measure?
A microscopic analysis of your red blood cells looks for variations in size (e.g., microcytes or macrocytes), shape (e.g., spherocytes, elliptocytes), and internal features like hemoglobin distribution. This helps detect conditions like thalassemia, sickle cell disease, or iron deficiency.
Why Might You Need This Test?
Your doctor may order this test if you have symptoms like fatigue, pale skin, unusual bruising, or unexplained bleeding. It’s also used to monitor conditions like anemia or to investigate unexplained lab results.
Sample Collection and Preparation
A small amount of whole blood is taken from a vein, typically in your arm. The sample is then sent to a lab for microscopic examination under a high-powered microscope. No special preparation is needed, but fasting may not apply.
What to Expect Before or After the Test
You may experience mild discomfort or bruising at the injection site, but this usually fades quickly. If you’re on blood-thinning medication, inform your doctor before the test to avoid unnecessary bleeding.
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 signal underlying health issues, such as nutritional deficiencies (e.g., vitamin B12 or folate), chronic diseases (e.g., liver or kidney problems), or genetic disorders. Early detection can guide treatment plans, such as adjusting medications or dietary changes.
Short name
Red Blood Cell (RBC) Morphology Check
Frequently asked questions
What causes red blood cells to appear abnormal?
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