Complete Blood Count CBC

Complete Blood Count (CBC) 

The Complete Blood Count (CBC) is a commonly ordered blood test that evaluates the overall health and detects a variety of disorders, including anemia, infection, and blood cancers. It measures several components and features of your blood, including red blood cells, white blood cells, hemoglobin, hematocrit, and platelets. 

1. What Is Included in a CBC? 

• Red Blood Cell (RBC) Count – Number of red blood cells, which carry oxygen. 

• Hemoglobin (Hb or Hgb) – The protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen. 

• Hematocrit (Hct) – The proportion of red blood cells to the fluid component of your blood. 

• Mean Corpuscular Volume (MCV) – Average size of red blood cells. 

• Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin (MCH) – Average amount of hemoglobin per red blood cell. 

• Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin Concentration (MCHC) – Average concentration of hemoglobin in red cells. 

• Red Cell Distribution Width (RDW) – Measures variation in red blood cell size or volume. 

• White Blood Cell (WBC) Count – Number of white blood cells; helps identify infections or immune issues. 

• Platelet Count – Number of platelets, which help with blood clotting. 

2. Why Is the CBC Test Performed? 

• Detect anemia, infection, inflammation, bleeding disorders, or certain cancers. 

• Monitor existing health conditions or the effects of treatments (e.g., chemotherapy). 

• Evaluate symptoms like weakness, fatigue, fever, bruising, or weight loss. 

3. Interpreting Results 

🔹 Low RBC, Hgb, or Hct: May indicate anemia or bleeding. 

🔹 High WBC: Suggests infection, inflammation, or leukemia. 

🔹 Low Platelet Count: May indicate a bleeding disorder or bone marrow issue. 

🔹 Abnormal MCV, MCH, or RDW: Helps identify type and cause of anemia. 

4. What Can Affect CBC Results? 

• Dehydration, recent illness, medications, or underlying medical conditions. 

• Nutrient deficiencies (iron, B12, folate). 

• Bone marrow disorders or chronic diseases. 

5. How Is the Test Performed? 

• A blood sample is taken from a vein, usually with no special preparation required. 

• Results are typically available within 1–2 days. 

6. When to See a Doctor 

🚨 Contact your healthcare provider if you: 

• Have unexplained fatigue, weakness, bruising, or infections. 

• Have an abnormal CBC result requiring further evaluation or follow-up tests. 

🔹 Key Takeaways 

• CBC is a fundamental blood test that gives a snapshot of overall health and blood composition. 

• It helps detect a wide range of conditions from infections to anemia to blood cancers. 

• Results should be interpreted by a healthcare provider in the context of your symptoms and health history.