Complete Blood Count
A Complete Blood Count (CBC), also known as a Complete Blood Picture, is a common blood test that provides valuable information about the different types of cells in your blood. Here are some of the main uses of a CBC:
- Screening and Diagnosis: CBCs are often used as a routine screening tool during general check-ups to assess overall health. They can help identify various medical conditions, including anemia, infections, and certain blood disorders.
- Anemia Detection: Anemia occurs when there's a decrease in the number of red blood cells or hemoglobin in the blood. CBCs can detect anemia by measuring parameters such as hemoglobin levels, hematocrit (the percentage of red blood cells in the blood), and red blood cell count.
- Infection Screening: CBCs can indicate the presence of infection by measuring the white blood cell count (WBC). An increase in the number of white blood cells (leukocytosis) often indicates infection or inflammation, while a decrease (leukopenia) may suggest a weakened immune system.
- Monitoring Health Conditions: For individuals with known health conditions such as leukemia, lymphoma, or other blood disorders, CBCs are used to monitor disease progression and treatment effectiveness over time.
- Assessing Bone Marrow Function: Abnormalities in the CBC, such as abnormal counts or shapes of blood cells, can indicate issues with bone marrow function, which is responsible for producing blood cells.
- Evaluating Bleeding Disorders: Platelets, which are involved in blood clotting, are also assessed in a CBC. Abnormal platelet counts can indicate bleeding disorders or an increased risk of excessive bleeding.
- Assessing Overall Health: A CBC provides a snapshot of your overall health and can help identify underlying health conditions even in the absence of specific symptoms.
- Preoperative Evaluation: Before undergoing surgery or certain medical procedures, healthcare providers often request CBCs to assess the patient's overall health and identify any potential risks related to blood disorders or abnormalities.