Complete blood count

Complete blood count (CBC) is one of the most common and informative laboratory tests that allows for the assessment of a patient’s overall health status. It helps identify various diseases and monitor the effectiveness of treatment.

CBC includes the measurement of various blood parameters, such as hemoglobin levels, the number of red and white blood cells, as well as platelet counts.

What does a complete blood count include?

A complete blood count typically includes the following key parameters:

• Hemoglobin (Hb): a protein that carries oxygen in the blood.
• Red blood cells (RBC): red blood cells responsible for transporting oxygen.
• White blood cells (WBC): white blood cells that play a key role in the immune system.
• Platelets (PLT): cells involved in the blood clotting process.
• Hematocrit (Hct): the percentage of blood cells to plasma.
• Mean corpuscular volume (MCV): a measure reflecting the average size of red blood cells.
• Mean corpuscular hemoglobin (MCH): the amount of hemoglobin in an average red blood cell.
• Mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration (MCHC): the concentration of hemoglobin in red blood cells.

Why is a complete blood count needed?

A complete blood count can assist in diagnosing various diseases, such as:

1. Anemia.
2. Infections.
3. Inflammatory processes.
4. Blood disorders.
5. Certain types of cancer.

Additionally, CBC can be used to monitor the health status of patients taking certain medications or to assess the overall condition of the body before surgical interventions.

How to properly prepare for the test?

To obtain the most accurate results, it is important to prepare properly for the test. It is recommended to:

• Fast for 8-12 hours before the procedure.
• Avoid physical exertion and stress before the test.
• Refrain from consuming alcohol for 24 hours prior to the test.

What can the test results mean?

The results of a complete blood count can vary depending on the patient’s age, sex, and health status. For example, a low hemoglobin level may indicate anemia, while an elevated white blood cell count may suggest the presence of an infection. It is important for a qualified physician to interpret the test results, taking into account all factors and ordering additional tests if necessary.

A complete blood count is an important tool in diagnosing and monitoring health, helping to identify many diseases at early stages. Regularly undergoing this test can contribute to maintaining health and preventing serious illnesses.