Complete Blood Count (CBC) refers to a common laboratory test that provides vital information about the different components of blood. This test is used to evaluate a person's overall health status, diagnose various medical conditions, and monitor ongoing treatments. A CBC provides quantitative and qualitative data about red blood cells (RBCs), white blood cells (WBCs), and platelets in a person's bloodstream.
The CBC measures different parameters including hematocrit, hemoglobin, red blood cell count, white blood cell count, and platelet count. Hematocrit indicates the percentage of blood volume occupied by RBCs while hemoglobin measures the protein responsible for transporting oxygen in the blood. Red blood cell count refers to the total number of RBCs in a person's blood sample. Additionally, the WBC count estimates the number of immune cells, and the platelet count assesses the number of cells involved in blood clotting.
This test also provides information about the size, shape, and type of blood cells present in the sample. For example, it can help detect abnormalities such as anemia (low RBC count) or leukemia (abnormal WBC count). The CBC may also include a differential count, which specifically identifies and quantifies the different types of WBCs present.
A complete blood count is a valuable tool for healthcare professionals to assess a person's overall health, identify potential health issues, and monitor the response to treatments. The results serve as important indicators that aid in the diagnosis and management of various conditions, including infections, anemias, autoimmune disorders, and many others.
