Complete Blood Count with Differential (CBC with Differential)
This test measures the types and counts of your blood cells, including red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets, along with the proportions of different types of white blood cells.
["Understanding your blood cell health helps identify infections, anemia, or other conditions."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 13946-9
- Short code
- Comp+Ig RBC Ql
- Synonyms
- Comp+Ig RBC Ql
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- whole-blood
- Container
- Lavender-top (EDTA)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 4.2
- Ref high
- 5.9
- Critical range
- 2 N/A – 7 N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- CPT
- 85041
- SNOMED
- 900000000000003001
- Specimen volume
- 3 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h
- Hemolysis max
- 0
- Lipemia max
- 0
- Icterus max
- 0
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
What Does the CBC with Differential Measure?
The CBC with differential includes several key components: - **Red blood cells (RBCs):** Carry oxygen throughout your body. - **White blood cells (WBCs):** Fight infections and inflammation. - **Platelets:** Help your blood clot when injured. - **Differential count:** Breaks down WBCs into subtypes (neutrophils, lymphocytes, monocytes, eosinophils, basophils) to assess immune response and potential disorders.
Why Might You Need This Test?
This test is commonly ordered to diagnose or monitor conditions such as infections, anemia, blood disorders (like leukemia), or to check for signs of chronic diseases like kidney problems or autoimmune disorders.
How Is the Test Performed?
A small blood sample is taken from a vein, usually in your arm. The sample is then analyzed in a lab to count and identify the different blood cells.
What Are Common Results and Their Meanings?
While specific reference ranges vary by lab, abnormal results may indicate low or high levels of certain cells, which can signal underlying health issues. For example, very low red blood cells might suggest anemia, while unusually high or low white blood cells could point to infections or immune system problems.
Reference range
Adult males: 4.2-5.9; Females: 3.8-5.1 x 10^12/LN/A
No special preparation required. Stay well hydrated.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
A CBC with differential is a foundational test that helps doctors diagnose and manage a wide range of conditions. It provides critical insights into your overall health, helps detect infections early, assesses the effectiveness of treatments, and monitors chronic diseases. For instance, it can reveal signs of bleeding disorders, blood cancers, or even nutritional deficiencies.
Short name
CBC with Differential
Frequently asked questions
What Does a CBC with Differential Tell Me About My Blood Health?
How Often Should I Get This Test?
Can I Prepare for 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 17, 2026. · Read our editorial policy