What are the results when whole blood is centrifuged?

When whole blood is centrifuged, it separates into distinct layers based on the density and size of its components. The following layers can be observed:

1. Plasma: The top layer is plasma, which is the liquid component of blood. It contains water, electrolytes, proteins, hormones, and various other substances.

2. Buffy Coat: Just below the plasma is a thin layer called the buffy coat. It contains white blood cells (leukocytes) and platelets (thrombocytes).

3. Red Blood Cells (Erythrocytes): The majority of the centrifuged blood is occupied by red blood cells. They are the most abundant blood cells and carry oxygen throughout the body.

4. Packed Cell Volume (PCV) or Hematocrit: The PCV or hematocrit refers to the volume percentage of red blood cells in the whole blood sample. It is measured after centrifugation and provides information about the proportion of red blood cells to the total blood volume.

5. Sediment: At the very bottom of the centrifuge tube, there might be a small layer of sediment. It consists of heavier components such as non-cellular debris and damaged blood cells.

The process of centrifugation allows for the separation of different blood components based on their density and size. This is useful for various purposes, including diagnostic tests, blood component collection for transfusion, and further analysis of specific blood components.