hematocrit

Definition

The percentage of blood volume occupied by red blood cells. Basically your blood's packing efficiency score.

Example Usage

The patient's hematocrit dropped to 25% following surgery, indicating significant blood loss requiring transfusion.

Origin

From Greek 'haima' (blood) and 'krites' (judge)

Fun Fact

Normal hematocrit is around 40-50% for men and 36-44% for women—altitude also affects it as your body compensates for lower oxygen.

Source: Laboratory medicine and hematology terminology

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