What is what level of rdw is dangerous?

---

Generally, a <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/RDW%20(Red%20Cell%20Distribution%20Width)">RDW (Red Cell Distribution Width)</a> is considered high if it's above the normal reference range established by the specific laboratory performing the test. This range typically falls between 11.5% and 14.5%.

• Slightly Elevated RDW: A mildly elevated RDW, just slightly above the upper limit, may not always be a cause for immediate concern. However, it still warrants further investigation, particularly if other blood test results are abnormal or if the patient presents with symptoms.

• Significantly Elevated RDW: A significantly elevated RDW, well above the upper limit of the reference range, is more likely to indicate an underlying medical condition. The higher the RDW, the greater the likelihood of a clinically significant problem.

It's important to remember that an elevated RDW alone isn't diagnostic. It indicates the presence of varying red blood cell sizes (anisocytosis) but doesn't reveal the underlying cause. Doctors use the RDW in conjunction with other blood test results, such as <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/Mean%20Corpuscular%20Volume%20(MCV)">MCV (Mean Corpuscular Volume)</a>, hemoglobin, and red blood cell count, as well as a patient's medical history and physical examination, to determine the cause of the abnormality.

Potential causes for a high RDW can include:

• <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/Iron%20Deficiency%20Anemia">Iron Deficiency Anemia</a>
• <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/Vitamin%20B12%20or%20Folate%20Deficiency">Vitamin B12 or Folate Deficiency</a>
• Hemoglobinopathies (like thalassemia or sickle cell anemia)
• Liver disease
• Kidney disease
• Certain medications
• Recent blood transfusions

A dangerous level is less about a specific number and more about the context of the overall clinical picture and the underlying condition causing the elevation. A persistently and significantly elevated RDW, especially when accompanied by other abnormal blood test results and symptoms, requires thorough investigation and management by a healthcare professional.