Full blood count (FBC) with differential and complete blood morphology panel (including automated platelet count and manual red blood cell morphology review)
This test evaluates your blood cells, including red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets, along with detailed examination of red blood cell shape and size.
["Understanding your blood cell health helps identify infections, anemia, or blood disorders."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 77734-2
- Short code
- M abscess erm(41) full Islt/Spm Ql
- Synonyms
- M abscess erm(41) full Islt/Spm Ql
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- molgen
- 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 is included in this test?
This test includes a standard full blood count (FBC), which measures the number and types of white blood cells (including neutrophils, lymphocytes, monocytes, eosinophils, and basophils), red blood cells, and platelets. Additionally, a manual review of red blood cell morphology is performed to assess their shape and size, which can help detect conditions like anemia or blood clotting issues.
Why might this test be ordered?
Your doctor may order this test to diagnose or monitor conditions such as infections, anemia, blood disorders (like leukemia or thrombocytopenia), or to check for signs of bleeding disorders or clotting problems. It’s also used during pregnancy, before surgeries, or to evaluate symptoms like fatigue, bruising, or frequent infections.
How is this test performed?
A small blood sample is taken from a vein, usually in your arm. The blood is then analyzed using automated machines for basic counts and a microscope for detailed red blood cell examination. The results help identify abnormalities in cell counts or morphology.
What are the possible results and what do they mean?
Results may show normal blood cell counts or indicate low or high levels of specific cells, which can signal infections, immune disorders, or other health issues. Abnormal red blood cell shapes may suggest conditions like sickle cell disease or iron deficiency. Always discuss your results with your healthcare provider.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Clinical significance: This test is critical for diagnosing and managing a wide range of conditions, including infections (e.g., low white blood cell counts), anemia (e.g., low red blood cell counts), and blood disorders (e.g., high platelet counts). It also helps monitor treatment responses and detect early signs of complications.
Frequently asked questions
What does a low or high white blood cell count mean?
Why do they review red blood cells under a microscope?
How often should I get 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