Complete Blood Count (CBC): What This Test Is, Why It Is Done, and What Your Results Mean

A complete blood count, or CBC, is a common blood test that measures the different cells in your blood, including red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. It gives your care team a broad picture of your overall health and how well your blood is doing its job.

The androstenedione test measures the amount of androstenedione hormone in your saliva. Androstenedione is produced by the adrenal glands (small glands on top of your kidneys), as well as the ovaries in women and testes in men. It acts as a precursor, meaning your body converts it into other important hormones like testosterone and estrogen.

This test is done to check your general health, look for conditions such as anemia, infection, or blood clotting problems, and to monitor an existing condition or how treatments like chemotherapy and certain medicines are affecting your blood cells.

Your doctor may order this test to help diagnose or monitor conditions related to hormonal imbalances, including: adrenal gland disorders (such as adrenal hyperplasia or tumors), polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), early or delayed puberty, excessive hair growth (hirsutism) in women, fertility problems, and certain cancers affecting hormone-producing tissues.

A healthcare professional will clean a small spot on your arm, wrap a band around your upper arm, and draw a small sample of blood from a vein using a thin needle. The sample is then sent to a laboratory for analysis, and the whole process usually takes only a few minutes.

For a saliva test, you will typically collect a sample of saliva in a small container or tube. This is usually done in the morning when hormone levels are most stable. You may be asked to avoid eating, drinking, or brushing your teeth before the test. The sample is then sent to a laboratory for analysis. Note: The test information indicates 'serum' as sample type, but the test name specifically refers to saliva. Please follow your healthcare provider's instructions regarding the correct sample type for your specific test.

Results within the normal ranges usually suggest that your blood cells are at healthy levels. Abnormal values may point to conditions such as anemia, infection, inflammation, or clotting problems, but your provider will interpret them together with your symptoms and medical history before making a diagnosis.

Normal androstenedione levels vary based on age, sex, and menstrual cycle phase (for women). High levels may indicate conditions such as PCOS, adrenal hyperplasia, adrenal tumors, or congenital adrenal hyperplasia. Low levels may suggest adrenal insufficiency or other adrenal disorders. Your doctor will interpret your results in the context of your symptoms, medical history, and other test results.