CBC stands for Complete Blood Count. It is a common blood test used to evaluate a person's overall health and detect various conditions, including anemia, infection, and leukemia.
A CBC measures the following components of the blood:
- Red blood cells: These cells carry oxygen throughout the body.
- White blood cells: These cells fight infection and other diseases.
- Platelets: These cells help the blood clot.
The results of a CBC can help doctors diagnose and monitor a wide range of health conditions.
Examples of why a CBC might be ordered:
- To check for anemia: Low levels of red blood cells can indicate anemia.
- To monitor infection: High levels of white blood cells can indicate an infection.
- To detect leukemia: Abnormal white blood cell counts can be a sign of leukemia.
It's important to note that CBC is also an acronym for other organizations, including:
- Canadian Broadcasting Corporation: A public broadcaster in Canada.
- Congressional Black Caucus Foundation: A non-profit organization that advocates for African American communities.
- Columbia Basin College: A public college in Washington state.
Note: When referring to a CBC, it's essential to understand the context to determine the correct meaning.
