What is the normal reference range for hematocrit in adult females?

What is the normal reference range for hematocrit in adult females?

• A. 34-44%
• B. 31-41%
• C. 37-47%
• D. 40-50%

Answer: (C)

Hematocrit is the percentage of blood volume that is made up of red blood cells. In healthy adult females, the normal range is about 37% to 47%. This lower-to-mid range compared with males reflects factors like menstruation and generally lower androgen levels, which influence red cell mass. Values within this span indicate normal oxygen-carrying capacity. If hematocrit falls below this range, it may signal anemia; if it rises above, it can indicate polycythemia. The other ranges fall outside the typical female reference, with at least one being more characteristic of males or representing a lower end that would raise concern for anemia.

Hematocrit is the percentage of blood volume that is made up of red blood cells. In healthy adult females, the normal range is about 37% to 47%. This lower-to-mid range compared with males reflects factors like menstruation and generally lower androgen levels, which influence red cell mass. Values within this span indicate normal oxygen-carrying capacity. If hematocrit falls below this range, it may signal anemia; if it rises above, it can indicate polycythemia. The other ranges fall outside the typical female reference, with at least one being more characteristic of males or representing a lower end that would raise concern for anemia.