RBC Count blood test
How many red blood cells are in a set volume of blood.
- Typical range (adult men)
- 4.5–5.9 M/µL
- Panel
- Blood Health
- Also called
- Red blood cell count, Erythrocytes
Reference ranges vary between labs; use the range on your own report. Results need to be read by a doctor alongside your symptoms and other tests.
Why it’s tested
Read with hemoglobin and hematocrit for blood thickness and anaemia.
What can raise it
- Testosterone or anabolic steroid use
- Dehydration
- Altitude
What can lower it
- Anaemia from low iron, B12 or folate
- Blood loss
Getting an accurate result
- Test in the morning, especially for hormones, which run highest early in the day.
- Stay hydrated, and test at the same lab and time of day each time so results compare fairly.
Other blood health tests
Questions
What is a normal RBC Count level?
A typical adult male reference range is 4.5–5.9 M/µL. Ranges differ for women, by age and between labs, so compare with the range printed on your report.
What does high RBC Count mean?
Common reasons include testosterone or anabolic steroid use, dehydration and altitude. One result outside the range isn't a diagnosis: a doctor will look at it with your other markers and history.
What does low RBC Count mean?
Common reasons include anaemia from low iron, B12 or folate and blood loss.