Complete Blood Count with Differential and Platelet Count (CBC with Diff)
This test measures your blood’s overall health, including red blood cells, white blood cells (with their types), and platelets, which help with clotting and infection fighting.
["A CBC helps doctors check for infections, anemia, bleeding disorders, or other blood-related conditions."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 96687-9
- Short code
- Clt Frm Diat Erth Ind Pnl Bld MicrVisc
- Synonyms
- Clt Frm Diat Erth Ind Pnl Bld MicrVisc
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- microviscometry
- Specimen volume
- 5 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
What Does a CBC Measure?
Your blood is analyzed for several key components: Red blood cells (RBCs) carry oxygen throughout your body. White blood cells (WBCs) include different types (neutrophils, lymphocytes, etc.) that fight infections. Platelets assist in blood clotting. These counts help identify issues like low iron, infections, or bleeding problems.
Why Might Your Doctor Order This Test?
A CBC is often done for routine check-ups, to monitor chronic conditions (like diabetes or heart disease), or to investigate symptoms such as fatigue, bruising, frequent infections, or unexplained bleeding.
When Could Results Be Abnormal?
Low RBCs or hemoglobin may indicate anemia, while high or low WBC counts could signal infections or autoimmune diseases. Platelet counts that are too high or too low may suggest bleeding disorders or clotting issues.
How Is This Test Done?
A small blood sample is taken from a vein, usually in your arm. The sample is sent to a lab where it’s analyzed to count and examine the different blood cells.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Abnormal CBC results can signal underlying health issues that require further testing or treatment. For example, low hemoglobin might mean you need iron supplements, while high platelet counts could prompt evaluation for conditions like cancer or inflammation. Always discuss results with your healthcare provider for personalized guidance.
Frequently asked questions
What does a CBC tell me about my overall health?
How long does it take to get CBC results?
Can I eat or drink before this test?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy