The RBC count is almost always part of a complete blood count (CBC) test. The test can help diagnose different kinds of anemia (low number of RBCs) and other conditions affecting red blood cells . Other conditions that may require an RBC count are: Bone marrow disorder in which the marrow is replaced by scar tissue (myelofibrosis) Disease that damages kidney blood vessels (Alport syndrome) Disorder in which red blood cells break down earlier than normal (hemolysis or paroxysmal nocturnal ... Learn about red blood cell (RBC) count , an important test that can help diagnose conditions including anemia, infection, and more. Normal RBC counts vary based on age and gender. Typically, females have slightly lower RBC values than males, and these counts usually decline gradually as a person gets older. Learn what red blood cells (RBCs) are, why they are important, and how to maintain a healthy RBC count . Find out the normal RBC ranges by age, sex, and physiological factors, and what high or low RBC levels might indicate.