Complete Blood Count (CBC)
A complete blood count (CBC) is a common blood test that measures various components of the blood to diagnose and monitor a wide range of health conditions.
Purpose
The purpose of a CBC is to:
- Evaluate the overall health of the body
- Diagnose and monitor blood disorders, such as anemia, bleeding disorders, and blood cancers
- Monitor the effectiveness of treatments for blood disorders
- Screen for underlying medical conditions, such as infections, inflammation, and immune system disorders
Components Measured
A CBC measures the following components of the blood:
- Red Blood Cell (RBC) Count: The number of red blood cells in the blood, which carry oxygen to the body's tissues.
- Hemoglobin (Hb): The amount of hemoglobin in the blood, which is a protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen.
- Hematocrit (Hct): The percentage of red blood cells in the blood.
- White Blood Cell (WBC) Count: The number of white blood cells in the blood, which help fight infections and diseases.
- Differential Count: The proportion of different types of white blood cells, including neutrophils, lymphocytes, monocytes, eosinophils, and basophils.
- Platelet Count: The number of platelets in the blood, which help the blood to clot.
Test Procedure
To perform a CBC, a healthcare professional will:
- Collect a blood sample from a vein in the arm or finger
- Use a needle and syringe or a lancet to collect the blood sample
- Send the blood sample to a laboratory for analysis
Results
The results of a CBC are typically reported as follows:
- Normal Range: The expected range of values for each component measured.
- Abnormal Results: Values that fall outside the normal range, which may indicate an underlying medical condition.
Interpretation
The interpretation of CBC results depends on various factors, including:
- Age and sex of the individual
- Medical history and current health status
- Presence of underlying medical conditions
- Medications or treatments being taken
Clinical Significance
A CBC is a valuable diagnostic tool that can help healthcare professionals:
- Diagnose and monitor blood disorders, such as anemia, leukemia, and lymphoma
- Evaluate the effectiveness of treatments for blood disorders
- Screen for underlying medical conditions, such as infections, inflammation, and immune system disorders
Article last updated on: 6th June 2025.
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