A Complete Blood Count (CBC) uses a blood sample to measure different components and features of your blood. Specifically, a CBC measures the following:
- Red blood cells: The number of red blood cells.
- Hemoglobin: The amount of hemoglobin, the protein that carries oxygen in your red blood cells.
- White blood cells: The number and types of white blood cells.
- Platelets: The number of platelets.
- Blood cell size: The size of your blood cells is also measured.
Essentially, a CBC provides a comprehensive overview of the cells circulating in your blood. A healthcare provider takes a blood sample and sends it to a lab for analysis. The lab then uses specialized equipment to count and measure the different blood components.
