Quantitative Complete Blood Count (CBC) with Differential and Platelet Count
This test measures the different types of blood cells—red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets—along with their counts and proportions. It helps assess overall health, detect infections, anemia, or blood disorders.
["A CBC helps diagnose and monitor conditions like infections, anemia, or blood clotting issues by examining blood cell counts and types."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 9873-1
- Short code
- QRS Complex Imp EKG
- Synonyms
- QRS Complex Imp EKG
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- ekg
- 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 With Differential Measure?
A CBC with differential includes several key components: Red Blood Cells (RBCs), Hemoglobin, Hematocrit, Mean Corpuscular Volume (MCV), White Blood Cell (WBC) count, and a breakdown of WBC subtypes (neutrophils, lymphocytes, monocytes, eosinophils, basophils). Platelet count is also included to check for blood clotting function.
Why Might You Need This Test?
Your doctor may order a CBC with differential to diagnose or monitor conditions such as infections (like pneumonia or bloodstream infections), anemia (low red blood cells), blood disorders (like leukemia), or to check for signs of inflammation or immune system issues.
How Is This Test Performed?
A small blood sample is drawn from a vein, typically in your arm. The blood is then analyzed in a lab to count and examine the different cell types. The differential part involves identifying and counting the types of white blood cells.
What Are Common Results and Their Meanings?
High or low counts of red blood cells, white blood cells, or platelets may indicate specific health concerns. For example, a high WBC count might suggest infection, while low RBCs could point to anemia. The differential helps pinpoint which type of white blood cell is elevated or decreased.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
A CBC with differential is a fundamental test that provides critical information about your blood’s health. It helps doctors identify infections, detect blood disorders, monitor chronic conditions like cancer or autoimmune diseases, and guide treatment decisions by offering a snapshot of your immune and circulatory systems.
Short name
CBC with Diff
Frequently asked questions
What does a CBC with differential tell me about my overall health?
Your doctor will determine how often you need this test based on your health status, symptoms, or medical history. Routine check-ups may include it, but frequent tests are usually ordered if you have a chronic condition or are undergoing treatment for one.
What are the typical reference ranges for a CBC with differential?
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