PCV stands for Packed Cell Volume, which is a measurement of the proportion of blood that is made up of cells. It is also known as hematocrit. The PCV test is usually conducted alongside a complete blood count to evaluate the need for blood transfusions and monitor the effectiveness of treatment. The test can reveal the percentage of red blood cells in your blood, which deliver oxygen to your body’s tissues. A lower number of the PCV means that the red blood cell count is less, which can be due to many reasons such as blood loss, cell destruction, and less bone marrow production. An increased PCV generally means that the person is dehydrated, and there is a higher number of RBC production. The normal PCV test range for healthy adults is between 38.3% and 48.6% for men and between 34.9% and 44.5% for women. The PCV test is done to diagnose anemia or polycythemia in patients.