Introduction: Red blood cell (RBC) histograms are graphical representations of cell frequencies versus cell sizes. Comparison of size of the patient’s cell with the normal population is possible with the help of histogram. RBC histogram along with Red cell indices, Hematocrit and red cell distribution width provides a significant information in various red cell disorders. Aims and Objectives: The objectives were to know the advantage and utility of RBC histogram in various anemias and study RBC histogram patterns along with peripheral smear examination. Material and Methods: 724 cases of outpatient department with Hemoglobin less than 12 gm% on complete blood count from SMIMER, Surat were included in study. RBC histogram generated in automated hematology analyzer were compared to the peripheral smear findings of the same patient. Results: Out of 724 cases, almost equal cases had normal curve and left shift of curve (34.81% and 33.70% respectively). 26.66% cases showed broad based histogram. Histogram of 3.18% cases were shifted to right and 1.65% had bimodal peak. Conclusions: Good interpretation of histogram provides significant information in diagnosis and follow-up of many hematological conditions. Red cell histogram can be used as important screening test in diagnosis of anemia before further hematological analysis.

Keywords: RBC histogram; Peripheral smear; Anemia.