RDW or red blood cell distribution width is a measure of how equal your red blood cells are in size. Learn what a high or low RDW means, what causes it, and how it relates to various blood-related disorders and diseases. Red cell distribution width (RDW) represents a fundamental hematological parameter that has emerged as a powerful prognostic biomarker across diverse medical conditions. Interpretation of RDW Blood Test Results The RDW (Red Cell Distribution Width) blood test is a crucial component of a complete blood count (CBC) that helps in diagnosing various health conditions. This test measures the range of variation in the size and volume of your red blood cells. In this article, we'll break down what RDW blood test results mean, why they matter, and how to interpret them. RDW results help your provider understand how much your red blood cells vary in size and volume. Results are usually shown as a percentage and compared to a reference range, which may vary depending on the lab used. A normal RDW result means your red blood cells are within the reference range.
