While a Complete Blood Count (CBC) test doesn't directly show pancreatitis, it provides valuable information that, when combined with other tests like lipase and amylase, helps in diagnosing and assessing the severity of the condition.
A CBC measures different components of your blood, and certain abnormalities can suggest inflammation or infection, which are often associated with pancreatitis. Here's what a CBC might reveal in the context of pancreatitis:
-
Elevated White Blood Cell (WBC) count (Leukocytosis): This is a common finding in acute pancreatitis. An increased WBC count indicates that the body is fighting an infection or inflammation. The normal range for WBCs is typically between 4,500 and 11,000 cells per microliter (mcL). In pancreatitis, the WBC count can be significantly higher.
-
Elevated Hematocrit: Dehydration is common in pancreatitis due to vomiting and fluid shifts. Dehydration can lead to an increased concentration of red blood cells, resulting in a higher hematocrit.
-
Platelet Count: The platelet count may be normal, elevated (thrombocytosis), or decreased (thrombocytopenia) depending on the severity and complications of the pancreatitis.
It's important to emphasize that these findings on a CBC are not specific to pancreatitis. They can occur in many other conditions involving inflammation or infection.
Key takeaway: Lipase is the preferred and more specific test for diagnosing acute pancreatitis. A CBC offers supportive information, especially regarding inflammation and potential complications. Other tests, such as amylase, liver function tests, and imaging studies (CT scan, MRI), are also often used in conjunction to establish a diagnosis and assess the severity of pancreatitis.
