A Complete Blood Count (CBC) report does not directly provide your blood group (ABO type and Rh factor). The CBC is designed to evaluate different components of your blood, such as red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets, and doesn't include blood typing information.
Why CBC Reports Don't Show Blood Type
The CBC focuses on counting and characterizing blood cells to detect various conditions like anemia, infection, and bleeding disorders. Determining your blood group requires a separate test called ABO and Rh typing. This test identifies the specific antigens present on your red blood cells.
How Blood Group is Determined: ABO and Rh Typing
To find out your blood group, you need a specific blood typing test. Here's how it works:
- Blood Sample Collection: A small sample of your blood is taken.
- ABO Typing: The blood sample is mixed with antibodies against type A and type B blood. If your blood cells clump (agglutinate) when mixed with anti-A antibodies, you have type A blood. If they clump with anti-B antibodies, you have type B blood. If they clump with both, you have type AB blood. If they don't clump with either, you have type O blood.
- Rh Typing: Your blood is also tested for the Rh factor (also called D antigen). If the Rh factor is present, you are Rh-positive (+). If it is absent, you are Rh-negative (-).
Where to Get Blood Typing Done
You can get your blood type determined at:
- Your doctor's office
- A hospital laboratory
- A blood donation center (often, blood type is determined during the donation process)
Example:
| Blood Type | Reaction with Anti-A | Reaction with Anti-B | Reaction with Anti-Rh |
|---|---|---|---|
| A+ | Clumping | No Clumping | Clumping |
| O- | No Clumping | No Clumping | No Clumping |
