Haematocrit (Hct) Determination

Or
Packed cell volume “P.C.V.”

Practical Animal Physiology

Science Department
4th Year – 1st Semester
6th lecture
Haematocrit (Hct) Determination
Or
Packed cell volume “P.C.V.”

Aim: The haematocrit or PCV is the

percentage of red blood cells in a volume of
whole blood. It’s a screening test for
Anemia, or Polycythemia and accurate
measurement of the hemoglobin level and
red cell count.
Principle: A volume of anticoagulant blood is
placed in a glass tube which is centrifuged so
that the blood is separated into three main
components:
1. Red blood cells
2. White blood cells (Buffy coat )
3. Plasma
The haematocrit (PCV) is the ratio of the
volume (height) of packed red cells column to
the total blood volume in the tube.
Procedures:

1. The blood sample should be fresh as possible

and mixed well with the anticoagulant.
2. Drawn up blood (take blood) into a
heparinized capillary tube to 2/3 of the tube.
3. Seal one end by pushing into the (sealing
clay) plasticine two or three times.
4. keep the sealed end to the out side.
5. Place the tube into one of the centrifuge plate
with the sealed end against the rubber gasket
of the centrifuge plate. Keep a record of
patient's name against centrifuge plate
numbers.
6. Run the Centrifuge for 5 – 10 minutes.
7. read the PCV in the micro haematocrit
reader by placing the base of the red
cell column on 0 (zero) line, the
meniscus of the plasma on the 100 line,
the moving the silver line on adjuster
until it is touching the red cell / white
cells and platelets interface.
Laboratory diagnosis of anaemia is based on:
• The haemoglobin (Hb) concentration
• The number of red blood cells
• Haematocrit or packed cell volume (PCV) values.

?How do you convert PCV to HB

• In conclusion, a simplified relationship of Hb (g/dL) =
(0.3 PCV) +3 may provide a better estimate
of Hb concentration from the PCV of cattle.
 Normal Ranges
Type Normal Range Mean Value

Male 38 – 54% mean 47±7%

Female 36 – 47% mean 42±5%

Infants 47 – 50%

Sheep 32%

Cow 40%

Chicken 30.6%

Horse 42%

Cats 37.3%

Dogs 45%

The Normal range for Hemoglobin is: For men, 13.5 to 17.5 grams
.per deciliter. For women, 12.0 to 15.5 grams per deciliter
Any Questions?

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