Expert: Samantha, MLT (ASCP) - 11/2/2009

Question
my husband had a blood test done last week what does this reading mean RBC  3.87,  HGB  11.6,  HCT  34.1,  PLT  133 all of these has a L in the flag column.  He has lost about 40 lbs without trying to lose weight, he is tried and could go to sleep at any time.

Answer
Hi Lynn.  From the test results you gave me, it appears that your husband may be anemic.  RBC (red blood cells), HGB (hemoglobin) HCT (hematocrit), and PLT (platelets) are all parts of a CBC (complete blood count) that could be low in anemia.  Your husband needs further tests to determine the cause of this.  The most common reason for anemia is iron deficiency, which would require further testing to determine.

Samantha