Red Cell Distribution Width (RDW) Isn't Widely Known

The Red Cell Distribution Width (RDW) isn't well known, but it is an important parameter for red blood cells. The RDW indicates whether there is a wide variety of red blood cell sizes, which can reflect a mixture of different types of anemia, including microcytic (small red blood cell) and macrocytic (large red blood cell) anemias, and can help us identify nutrient insufficiencies.

Small red blood cells are characteristic of iron-deficiency anemia, the most common cause of anemia worldwide. Large red blood cells are associated with vitamin B12 deficiency, another common cause of anemia.

An elevated RDW suggests anemia or underlying pathology.

The RDW is part of the Complete Blood Count (CBC) report, and a high but suboptimal RDW should be explored further, as it indicates the presence of anemia.

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