Normal range 11.5-14.5 %. Specimen: Whole blood (EDTA).
Also known as: red cell variation.
11.5-14.5 %Reference range
Reference range
Conventional%
11.514.5
Combined adult band. LabVals does not publish separate men's, women's, or pediatric ranges for Red Cell Distribution Width (RDW); those can be narrower than the band shown.
Red Cell Distribution Width (RDW) reference range, specimen, and conversion details
Convert any Red Cell Distribution Width (RDW) result between units on the unit converter.
What is the normal range for Red Cell Distribution Width (RDW)?
The standard teaching reference range for Red Cell Distribution Width (RDW) is 11.5-14.5 %. This value is measured in whole blood (edta).
Source: Adult reference values compiled from Pagana & Pagana, Mosby's Diagnostic and Laboratory Test Reference, and Fischbach & Dunning, A Manual of Laboratory and Diagnostic Tests. Reference ranges vary by laboratory, method, age, sex, and population - always use the range printed on the actual result.
Above the range
What causes a high Red Cell Distribution Width (RDW)?
A high RDW (anisocytosis) with low MCV points toward iron deficiency over thalassemia.
Rises early in evolving nutritional anemias.
PremiumDrill the Complete Blood Count (CBC) deck
You have the Red Cell Distribution Width (RDW) range. Premium unlocks the 16-card Complete Blood Count (CBC) flashcard deck with mastery tracking, study sheets that put several panels on one printable page, and unlimited practice across all 440 quiz questions - the free round stops at 10 a day.