Mathematical Explanation for the Wide and Deviated Range of Optimal Hematocrit

ABSTRACT

Hematocrit is an important determinant of oxygen delivery. Of particular interest, its target level is very wide for different kinds of shock from 30% for hemorrhagic or septic shock to 56% for secondary polycythemia. This range is not only wide but also deviated to the higher level from the optimal value of 40%. In this letter, the authors determine the mathematical basis of the wide and deviated range of hematocrit starting from the Hagen-Poisseuille equation.