An FBC, or Full Blood Count, is a blood test used to look for abnormalities in your blood, such as unusually high or low numbers of blood cells, which can help diagnose a wide range of illnesses, infections, and diseases.
Why is an FBC Performed?
The primary use of an FBC is to screen for, diagnose, and monitor a variety of conditions. Here’s a breakdown:
- Diagnosis: An FBC can help identify the cause of symptoms like fatigue, weakness, fever, bruising, or bleeding.
- Monitoring: It can be used to monitor chronic diseases or the effects of certain medications on blood cells.
- Screening: It is often part of a routine check-up to screen for underlying health issues, even in the absence of symptoms.
What does an FBC measure?
An FBC typically measures the following components of your blood:
| Component | Significance |
|---|---|
| Red Blood Cells | Oxygen transport; abnormalities can indicate anemia or other issues. |
| White Blood Cells | Immune function; abnormalities can indicate infection or immune disorders. |
| Platelets | Blood clotting; abnormalities can indicate bleeding or clotting disorders. |
What happens if an FBC shows abnormalities?
If your FBC results are outside the normal range, your doctor may order further tests to determine the underlying cause. As the reference states, "Your doctor may arrange further tests to help determine the cause of the abnormality." These tests may include:
- Blood Smear: To examine blood cells under a microscope.
- Bone Marrow Biopsy: To evaluate the production of blood cells in the bone marrow.
- Further Blood Tests: To assess specific blood cell functions or identify underlying conditions.
