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Erythrocyte Count with Differential Analysis (Automated Hematology Profile)

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

This test measures your blood’s red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets, along with the proportions of different types of white blood cells. It helps assess overall health, detect infections, anemia, or blood disorders.

Quick summary

["A CBC helps diagnose and monitor conditions like infections, anemia, or blood clotting issues."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
87402-4
Short code
EC aidA-I gene Islt Ql NAA+probe
Synonyms
EC aidA-I gene Islt Ql NAA+probe
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
probe-amp-tar
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 sample is analyzed to count and identify three main cell types: red blood cells (RBCs), white blood cells (WBCs), and platelets. The test also breaks down WBCs into five types (neutrophils, lymphocytes, monocytes, eosinophils, and basophils) to check for immune system activity or infections.

Why Might You Need a CBC?

A CBC may be ordered to monitor chronic conditions (like anemia or blood disorders), check for signs of infection, evaluate symptoms such as fatigue, bruising, or frequent infections, or assess responses to treatments.

How Is a CBC Performed?

A small blood sample is drawn from a vein, usually in your arm. The sample is sent to a lab where an automated machine counts and analyzes the cells. No special preparation is needed.

What Are Common CBC Results?

Results are compared to standard ranges, but exact values can vary by lab. Abnormal counts may indicate conditions like low iron (anemia), high infection risk (leukocytosis), or bleeding disorders (low platelets).

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Complete Blood Count (CBC) with Differential

Frequently asked questions

What does a CBC test include?
A CBC includes red blood cell count, hemoglobin, hematocrit, mean corpuscular volume (MCV), white blood cell count with differential (neutrophils, lymphocytes, monocytes, eosinophils, basophils), and platelet count.
How long does it take to get CBC results?
Results are typically available within 1 to 2 business days, depending on lab processing times. Follow-up with your healthcare provider is needed if any values fall outside expected ranges.
Can I eat or drink before a CBC test?
No special diet or fasting is required for a CBC. However, inform your provider if you’re taking medications that might affect blood counts, such as blood thinners or steroids.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

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.

Medical Disclaimer

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