Complete Blood Count (CBC): What You Need to Know About This Common Blood Test

The complete blood count, or CBC, is a routine blood test that measures the different cells in your blood, including red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets, to help evaluate your overall health.

The 24-hour urine beta globulin test measures the amount of beta globulin proteins in your urine. Beta globulins are a type of protein found in blood plasma that help transport hormones, vitamins, iron, and other substances throughout your body. This test uses a technique called electrophoresis to separate and measure the different types of proteins in your urine.

A healthcare professional will draw a small sample of blood, usually from a vein in your arm, using a thin needle. The procedure takes only a few minutes, and you can typically return to your normal activities right afterward.

For this test, you will collect all urine you produce over a 24-hour period. You will be given a special container to collect your urine. On the first day, you will start collecting after your first morning urine and continue collecting for the next 24 hours, including the first morning urine on the second day. It is important to keep the container refrigerated or in a cool place during the collection period. Try to collect urine at the same time each day to ensure accuracy.

Your doctor may order this test as part of a routine checkup, to investigate symptoms such as fatigue, weakness, fever, unusual bruising, or bleeding, or to monitor an existing condition like anemia, infection, or a blood disorder.

Your doctor may order this test if you have symptoms of kidney or liver disease, such as swelling in your legs, unusual fatigue, or changes in urination. It may also be used to monitor certain conditions like multiple myeloma, nephrotic syndrome, or chronic inflammatory diseases. The test helps your doctor understand how well your kidneys are filtering proteins and whether there is any abnormal protein loss in your urine.

Results within the normal ranges usually suggest healthy blood cell levels. Abnormal values may point to conditions such as anemia, infection, inflammation, or clotting problems, but your provider will interpret them alongside your symptoms and medical history.

Normal results vary by laboratory, but generally, beta globulins should make up a small percentage of total urine protein. Abnormal results may indicate kidney disease, liver dysfunction, certain infections, or blood disorders like multiple myeloma. Your doctor will interpret your results based on your symptoms, medical history, and other test results.