Complete Blood Count (CBC) with Differential and Platelet Count (deprecated)

What This Test Measures

A CBC includes several key measurements: **Red Blood Cells (RBCs)** – carry oxygen to tissues; **Hemoglobin** – the protein in RBCs that transports oxygen; **Hematocrit** – the percentage of blood volume made up of RBCs; **White Blood Cells (WBCs)** – the body’s immune defenders; and **Platelets** – small cells that help with clotting. The **differential** counts the types of WBCs (neutrophils, lymphocytes, monocytes, eosinophils, basophils), which can indicate infections or inflammatory conditions.

Why It Matters in Diagnosis

Abnormal CBC results can signal underlying health issues such as anemia (low RBCs), infections (elevated WBCs), bleeding disorders (low platelets), or blood cancers (unusual WBC counts). For example, low hemoglobin may point to fatigue or weakness, while high platelet counts could suggest bleeding risks or other conditions.

Sample Collection and Preparation

This test requires a simple blood draw from a vein in your arm. No special preparation is needed, but fasting may be advised for certain components if your test includes metabolic or electrolyte panels. Your blood is sent to a lab for analysis, where technicians separate and count cells using automated machines.

Common Conditions Detected

A CBC is often used to diagnose or monitor conditions like anemia (e.g., iron deficiency), infections (e.g., bacterial or viral), autoimmune diseases (e.g., lupus), or blood disorders (e.g., leukemia). It’s also a routine check during pregnancy, before surgeries, or after injuries.