Complete Blood Count; CBC Test

A CBC test is called a complete blood count test looks at the quantities and characteristics of blood cells. The dimensions, quantity, and level of maturity of the various blood cells in a given amount of blood are all measured by a complete blood count (CBC) test. Red blood cells (RBCs), white blood cells (WBCs), and platelets are the three types of cells that are examined.

The oxygen-carrying capacity of red blood cells is crucial for preventing anaemia and weariness. While the hematocrit component of the CBC assesses the proportion of red blood cells in the blood, haemoglobin assesses the ability of the red blood cells to transport oxygen.

White blood cells defend against disease. Therefore, an infection may be present if there are more white blood cells than usual. Reduced levels could be a sign of some rheumatic conditions or a drug reaction.

The body is protected from bleeding and bruising by platelets. Typically, it is done to look for a blood infection.

Following are the results of a CBC test:

• Amount of red blood cells overall (the RBC count)
• Blood's overall haemoglobin content
• Proportion of red blood cells in blood (the hematocrit)
• Average size of a red blood cell (the mean corpuscular volume)
• Average haemoglobin content per red blood cell (the mean corpuscular hemoglobin)
• Hemoglobin content per red blood cell on average (the mean corpuscular haemoglobin concentration)
• Amount of white blood cells overall
• The quantity of each type of white blood cell, including neutrophils (the WBC differential) (the absolute neutrophil count, or ANC)
• Amount of platelets (the platelet count)

Why a CBC test is done

A typical blood test is a CBC. Although it can be done at any time, it is frequently done as part of a regular checkup. A CBC test may be done to:

• Become knowledgeable about your general health
• Observe how well the spleen and bone marrow are functioning.
• assist in the diagnosis of illnesses and ailments that impact blood cells, such as leukaemia, anaemia, infection, and blood disorders.
• set a baseline against which future CBCs can be compared.
• to see if the bone marrow is suppressed
• track a condition (as a part of follow-up)

How a CBC test is done

Typically, a CBC test is performed in a hospital or Pathology lab. Before getting a CBC, you can be given specific recommendations to follow. Before getting a CBC, you might be requested to cease taking several medications because they could impact the results. To find out if you should stop taking any medications and for how long, check with the lab.

Usually, an arm vein is used to draw blood. Your upper arm is wrapped in an elastic band (tourniquet) to apply pressure to the region and make the veins more visible. To make the veins more visible, you could be instructed to create a fist. The skin is sterilized and cleansed. A vein is punctured with a needle, and a little amount of blood is drawn out. A stinging or prickling sensation could occur.

Your name and other identifying details are written on the tube that the blood is collected in before being injected. Blood is occasionally collected in multiple tubes. The needle is extracted when the tourniquet has been taken off. When the needle is removed, you can experience some minor discomfort. The bleeding is stopped by applying pressure to the spot where the needle was put. You might apply a tiny bandage to the region.

An expert in the lab (a lab technologist) examines the blood sample using microscopes and other specialized tools.

What types of tests are included in a CBC test?

A CBC test, also known as a Complete Blood Count test, is a routine laboratory test that provides valuable information about your blood components. This test is commonly ordered by healthcare providers to evaluate your overall health or to diagnose a specific condition. A CBC test is a comprehensive blood test that analyzes several types of blood cells in your body. Let’s take a closer look at the types of tests included in a CBC test in Delhi.

Red Blood Cells (RBCs)

The CBC test measures the number of red blood cells in your blood. RBCs are responsible for carrying oxygen to your body’s tissues. The test also measures the amount of hemoglobin in your blood, which is the protein that carries oxygen to your cells.

White Blood Cells (WBCs)

The CBC test measures the number of white blood cells in your blood. WBCs are responsible for fighting infections and diseases. The test also measures the percentage of each type of WBC, including neutrophils, lymphocytes, monocytes, eosinophils, and basophils.

Platelets

The CBC test measures the number of platelets in your blood. Platelets are responsible for clotting your blood to prevent excessive bleeding.

What does a CBC test diagnose?

A CBC test can help diagnose several conditions such as anemia, leukemia, thrombocytopenia, leukopenia, and dehydration. It can also help detect infections, inflammation, and autoimmune disorders.

In conclusion, a CBC test is a vital tool for assessing your health and detecting various medical conditions. By understanding what a CBC test near me involves and what the results mean, you can be better equipped to take control of your health and work with your healthcare provider to develop a personalized care plan. If you have any concerns or questions about a CBC test, be sure to discuss them with your healthcare provider. They can provide you with more detailed information and help you interpret the results. Remember, taking care of your health starts with understanding it, and a CBC test is an important step in that journey.

What are the normal ranges for a CBC test?

A CBC or Complete Blood Count test is a common laboratory test that provides information about different components of your blood. This test measures the number of red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets in your blood, along with their size and shape. A CBC test can help your doctor diagnose various medical conditions such as anemia, infections, and bleeding disorders.

Here are the normal ranges for a CBC test:

1. Red blood cells (RBCs): The normal range for RBCs in adults is between 4.5 to 5.5 million cells/mcL (microliters) for men and 4.0 to 5.0 million cells/mcL for women. However, these values may vary slightly depending on the laboratory that performs the test.

2. Hemoglobin (Hb): The normal range for hemoglobin in adults is between 13.5 to 17.5 g/dL (grams per deciliter) for men, and 12.0 to 15.5 g/dL for women.

3. Hematocrit (Hct): The normal range for hematocrit in adults is between 38.8% to 50% for men and 34.9% to 44.5% for women.

4. White blood cells (WBCs): The normal range for WBCs in adults is between 4,500 to 11,000 cells/mcL. However, this range may vary depending on the age, gender, and health status of the person being tested.

5. Platelets: The normal range for platelets in adults is between 150,000 to 450,000 cells/mcL. A low platelet count, or thrombocytopenia, can increase the risk of bleeding, while a high platelet count, or thrombocytosis, can increase the risk of blood clots.

6. Differential white blood cell count: This test measures the percentage of different types of white blood cells, including neutrophils, lymphocytes, monocytes, eosinophils, and basophils. An abnormal white blood cell count can indicate an infection, inflammation, or a blood disorder such as leukemia.

In summary, a CBC test is a comprehensive blood test that can provide valuable information about your overall health and help diagnose various medical conditions. By understanding the normal ranges for each component of the CBC test, you can better interpret your results and work with your healthcare provider to develop a plan for optimal health.