Another name for CBC is blood cell count.
Understanding the Complete Blood Count (CBC)
A Complete Blood Count (CBC), also known as a blood cell count or a full blood count, is a common blood test used to evaluate the overall health of a person and detect a wide range of conditions. This test measures the different types and numbers of blood cells, such as red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets.
Why is a CBC Performed?
- Diagnosis: A CBC helps diagnose various diseases and conditions, including infections, anemia, and blood cancers.
- Monitoring: It is used to monitor existing health conditions, evaluate the effectiveness of treatments, and observe disease progression.
Key Components of a CBC
A CBC examines the following:
- Red Blood Cells (RBCs): These cells carry oxygen throughout the body. A CBC assesses their count, size, and hemoglobin content.
- White Blood Cells (WBCs): These cells are part of the immune system and fight infections. A CBC measures the total number of WBCs and identifies the different types (neutrophils, lymphocytes, monocytes, eosinophils, and basophils).
- Platelets: These are small cell fragments that help with blood clotting. A CBC measures their count to assess the body's ability to stop bleeding.
How is a CBC Performed?
According to the provided reference from the National Cancer Institute (NCI), a CBC is performed by collecting a blood sample. This is done by:
- Inserting a needle into a vein.
- Allowing the blood to flow into a tube.
Alternate Names Summary:
| Common Name | Alternate Names |
|---|---|
| Complete Blood Count | Blood Cell Count, Full Blood Count |
