Red Cell Distribution Width

Vastian Learning
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Continuing Education Credits

P.A.C.E.® Contact Hours: hour(s)

Florida Board of Clinical Laboratory Science CE Credit Hours

: hour(s)

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Objectives

  • Define red cell distribution width (RDW) and explain its relationship to anisocytosis.
  • Differentiate RDW-CV from RDW-SD.
  • Interpret RDW results with the mean cell volume, red blood cell histogram, and peripheral blood smear findings.
  • Recognize common clinical patterns and laboratory limitations affecting RDW.

Course Outline

  • Red Cell Distribution Width
    • What Is Red Cell Distribution Width?
    • The RBC Volume Histogram
    • RDW-Coefficient of Variation
    • RDW-Standard Deviation
    • Table: RDW-CV vs. RDW-SD
    • Interpreting RDW with the MCV
    • When RDW-CV and RDW-SD Disagree
    • Laboratory Review and Common Pitfalls
    • Case Study
    • Key Takeaways
  • References
    • References

Additional Information

This is a mini course designed to enhance learning and reinforce existing knowledge. It does not provide continuing education (CE) credit. The purpose of this course is to support ongoing professional development and review.