What causes high RDW and low WBC?

high RDW

High RDW and low WBC can be caused by many reasons.

If your RDW is in between 11.6 % and 14 % and your WBC is in between 4 thou/uL and 11 thou/uL then you need not worry as these are the normal ranges for RDW and WBC respectively. But if your levels are lesser or greater than the above values, then there may be some problem in your body.

Important - Go to the end of this article and read how our patients treated their abnormal RDW levels 

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Normal range of RDW : 11.6 - 14 %

Ideal values of RDW depending on age :
Age Ideal RDW value
<5 years 11.834
5-10 years 12.073
10-15 years 12.317
15-20 years 12.566
20-25 years 12.82
25-30 years 13.079
30-35 years 13.343
35-40 years 13.613
40-45 years 13.888
45-50 years 13.883
50-55 years 13.877
55-60 years 13.871
60-70 years 13.865
70-80 years 13.859
80-90 years 13.853
90-100 years 13.848
>100 years 13.843

*Ideal values are calculated based on our database of patient records

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1,37,160

Total number of patients treated

RDW treatment - Click to read 10 GOLDEN ARTICLES on Anemia

Some examples of conditions that increase or decrease RDW levels include:

  • Crohn's disease
  • Chronic liver disease
  • Thalassemia, an inherited blood disorder
  • An iron or vitamin deficiency
  • Heart disease

If you want your blood test report to be interpreted by RDW specialist, you can upload your report. Our RDW expert will provide you with the most accurate interpretation of your blood test results and treatment within 12 hours. Upload blood test report now

Normal range of WBC : 4 - 11 thou/uL

Ideal values of WBC depending on age :
Age Ideal WBC value
<5 years 4.081
5-10 years 4.163
10-15 years 4.247
15-20 years 4.333
20-25 years 4.421
25-30 years 4.51
30-35 years 4.601
35-40 years 4.694
40-45 years 4.789
45-50 years 4.886
50-55 years 4.985
55-60 years 5.086
60-70 years 5.189
70-80 years 5.294
80-90 years 5.401
90-100 years 5.51
>100 years 5.621
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Can Low or High RDW cause Heart Problems?

Read on to know how abnormal RDW affects heart

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High RDW and low WBC can be caused by a lot of reasons. If you take RDW and WBC blood tests and the results are higher than 14 % for RDW and lower than 4 thou/uL for WBC, your physician may recommend more tests to figure out the problem. You might also get these tests if your physician thinks you have some other disease.

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How the RDW and WBC Tests Are Done :

If your doctor wants RDW and WBC tests on you, you may need to go through these tests. During the RDW and WBC blood tests, a pathologist will put a needle into your veins and take out a small quantity of blood. A pathologist is a physician in the medical field who thoroughly studies the causes and effects of disease. Within a few hours you will get your RDW and WBC Test reports by your pathologist.

Medical References

Symptoms
Dr. Hernandez - Pathologist

Medically Reviewed By

Dr. Hernandez, MD

BOARD CERTIFIED PATHOLOGIST

Laboratory Medicine Specialist

View Full Profile & Credentials →

Laboratory Expertise:

  • Clinical Pathology Certification
  • 15+ years lab analysis experience
  • Specializes in test interpretation
  • Medical Advisory Board Member
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Medical Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes and should not replace professional medical advice. Consult your physician for diagnosis and treatment. Read full disclaimer.

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