WHY CBC TEST IS DONE

A CBC test, or complete blood count, is a routine blood test that measures the levels of different types of blood cells in your body. This includes red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. A CBC test can be used to diagnose and monitor a variety of conditions, including anemia, infection, and cancer.

Why is a CBC Test Done?

There are many reasons why a doctor might order a CBC test. Some of the most common reasons include:

• To screen for anemia and other blood disorders


• To diagnose and monitor infections


• To evaluate the severity of an illness


• To monitor the effectiveness of treatment


• To screen for cancer

What Does a CBC Test Measure?

A CBC test measures the following:

• Red blood cells (RBCs): RBCs carry oxygen from the lungs to the rest of the body. A low RBC count can indicate anemia, while a high RBC count can indicate a condition called polycythemia.


• White blood cells (WBCs): WBCs fight infection. A high WBC count can indicate an infection, while a low WBC count can indicate a problem with the immune system.


• Platelets: Platelets help to stop bleeding. A low platelet count can indicate a bleeding disorder, while a high platelet count can indicate a condition called thrombocytosis.


• Hemoglobin: Hemoglobin is the protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen. A low hemoglobin level can indicate anemia.


• Hematocrit: Hematocrit is the percentage of red blood cells in the blood. A low hematocrit level can indicate anemia, while a high hematocrit level can indicate polycythemia.

How is a CBC Test Performed?

A CBC test is a simple blood test. A blood sample is taken from a vein in your arm and sent to a laboratory for analysis. The results of the test are usually available within a few days.

What Do the Results of a CBC Test Mean?

The results of a CBC test can vary depending on your age, sex, and overall health. Your doctor will interpret the results of your test and let you know what they mean.

Normal Ranges:

• Red blood cells: 4.5-5.9 million cells/mcL for men, 4.1-5.1 million cells/mcL for women


• White blood cells: 4,500-11,000 cells/mcL


• Platelets: 150,000-450,000 cells/mcL


• Hemoglobin: 14-18 g/dL for men, 12-16 g/dL for women


• Hematocrit: 42-52% for men, 38-48% for women

Abnormal Results:

• Anemia: A low RBC count, hemoglobin level, or hematocrit level can indicate anemia. Anemia can be caused by a number of factors, including iron deficiency, vitamin B12 deficiency, and chronic diseases.


• Infection: A high WBC count can indicate an infection. The type of infection can be identified by looking at the different types of WBCs in the blood.


• Bleeding disorder: A low platelet count can indicate a bleeding disorder. Bleeding disorders can be caused by a number of factors, including platelet disorders, liver disease, and certain medications.


• Polycythemia: A high RBC count, hemoglobin level, or hematocrit level can indicate polycythemia. Polycythemia can be caused by a number of factors, including smoking, high altitudes, and certain medical conditions.

Conclusion

A CBC test is a simple blood test that can provide valuable information about your overall health. If you are experiencing any symptoms that may indicate a blood disorder, your doctor may order a CBC test to help diagnose the cause.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the difference between a CBC test and a blood test?


2. What are the normal ranges for a CBC test?


3. What do the results of a CBC test mean?


4. What are some of the conditions that a CBC test can diagnose?


5. How often should I get a CBC test?