A complete blood count (CBC) is a common blood test that evaluates various components of your blood, providing valuable insights into your overall health. It assesses the quantities and characteristics of different blood cells, helping diagnose a wide range of conditions.
What the CBC Measures:
The CBC test analyzes several key aspects of your blood:
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Red Blood Cells (RBCs or erythrocytes): The test measures the number of RBCs, their size, and the amount of hemoglobin (the protein carrying oxygen) they contain. Low RBC counts or hemoglobin levels can indicate anemia. The shape of red blood cells is also assessed, for example, to check for sickle cell anemia, as mentioned in one of the references.
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White Blood Cells (WBCs or leukocytes): This part of the test measures the total number of WBCs and often breaks down the count into different types (neutrophils, eosinophils, basophils, lymphocytes, and monocytes). Abnormal WBC counts can suggest infection, inflammation, or other blood disorders, such as leukemia.
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Platelets (thrombocytes): Platelets are essential for blood clotting. The CBC determines the number of platelets in your blood. Low platelet counts (thrombocytopenia) increase the risk of bleeding, while high counts (thrombocytosis) may signal other health issues.
The reference material specifically mentions that a CBC identifies and counts the seven types of cells found in blood: red blood cells, neutrophils, eosinophils, basophils, lymphocytes, monocytes, and platelets. Several sources highlight the measurement of red blood cell count, white blood cell count, and platelet count as core components of a CBC.
Uses of a CBC:
CBC results are used to screen for and diagnose various conditions, including:
- Anemia: Low red blood cell count or hemoglobin.
- Infection: Elevated white blood cell count.
- Leukemia: Abnormal white blood cell counts and types.
- Bleeding disorders: Low platelet count.
In summary, a CBC provides a comprehensive overview of your blood's cellular components, offering valuable diagnostic information for a wide array of health concerns.
