Complete Blood Count (CBC)

A comprehensive test that evaluates red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets to assess overall health and detect various conditions.

15 markers included

Purpose

The CBC provides a comprehensive overview of your blood cell health. It helps diagnose anemia, infection, inflammation, bleeding disorders, and blood cancers. It's one of the most commonly ordered blood tests and serves as an excellent baseline health assessment.

When to Order

Recommended as part of routine health checkups, when experiencing symptoms like fatigue, weakness, or infection, before surgery, and to monitor various health conditions or treatments.

Preparation Instructions

No fasting is required for a CBC. Stay well-hydrated before the test. Inform your healthcare provider about any medications you're taking, as some can affect results.

Included Markers

White Blood Cell Count

10^9/L

The total number of white blood cells in your blood.

Red Blood Cell Count

10^12/L

The total number of red blood cells per volume of blood.

Haemoglobin

g/L

The oxygen-carrying protein in red blood cells.

Haematocrit

The percentage of blood volume that consists of red blood cells.

Platelets

10^9/L

Cell fragments essential for blood clotting.

MCV (Mean Corpuscular Volume)

The average size of red blood cells.

MCH (Mean Corpuscular Haemoglobin)

The average amount of hemoglobin per red blood cell.

MCHC (Mean Corpuscular Haemoglobin Concentration)

g/L

The average concentration of hemoglobin inside red blood cells.

Red Cell Distribution Width (RDW)

Measures the variation in size of red blood cells.

MPV (Mean Platelet Volume)

The average size of platelets in the blood.

Neutrophils (count and %)

10^9/L

The most abundant type of white blood cell, which fights bacterial infections.

Lymphocytes (count and %)

10^9/L

White blood cells that play a central role in immune responses.

Monocytes (count and %)

10^9/L

A type of white blood cell that can develop into macrophages.

Eosinophils (count and %)

10^9/L

A type of white blood cell involved in allergic responses and parasite defense.

Basophils (count and %)

10^9/L

A type of white blood cell involved in allergic reactions and inflammation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does a low hemoglobin level mean?

Low hemoglobin indicates anemia, which can result from iron deficiency, vitamin B12 or folate deficiency, chronic disease, blood loss, or bone marrow problems. Further testing is usually needed to determine the cause.

What causes elevated white blood cell count?

Elevated WBC (leukocytosis) commonly indicates infection, inflammation, stress, allergies, or immune response. Persistent elevation may require investigation for conditions like leukemia or autoimmune disorders.

How does MCV help diagnose anemia type?

MCV measures red blood cell size. Low MCV (microcytic) suggests iron deficiency or thalassemia. High MCV (macrocytic) suggests B12 or folate deficiency. Normal MCV with low hemoglobin may indicate chronic disease or recent blood loss.

Do I need to fast for a CBC?

No, fasting is not required for a CBC. You can eat and drink normally before the test. However, if your CBC is being done alongside other tests like glucose or lipids, you may need to fast for those.

Quick Facts

Markers:15
Fasting:Not required

Related Conditions

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