by A blood test called the complete blood count (CBC) is frequently used to identify diseases like leukaemia, infection, and anaemia. Additionally, it serves as a broad barometer of your health. Red, white, and platelet blood cells as well as other circulating blood cells are all measured by a CBC test.
One of the most popular blood tests is the CBC test. It’s frequently carried out as part of a standard medical examination or when your doctor has reason to believe you have a disease that might be damaging your blood cells.
A CBC test can detect issues with any of the following three blood cell types:
Your doctor can learn crucial details about the size, shape, and quantity of red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets from the CBC test. Leukaemia, infection, and anaemia can all be diagnosed using this information.
Usually, the CBC test is a standard component of a physical examination. Additionally, it’s frequently carried out when your doctor thinks you have a disease that might be damaging your blood cells. The test is often brief and simple, and no additional preparation is needed.
CBC tests are occasionally used to check for cancer, although they are less effective than other cancer screening exams including colonoscopies and mammography.
Although there are certain hazards, the CBC test is generally risk-free. These include bruising at the injection site, bleeding from the finger prick or venipuncture, and dizziness or faintness. The CBC test can, on occasion, result in a serious allergic reaction.
Cbc Test: Purpose, Procedure And Risks
A complete blood count (CBC) is a blood test that is used to assess your general health and find out if you have leukaemia, anaemia, or other diseases. Typically, a CBC test includes:
Your white blood cell (WBC) count, which counts the amount of these cells in your blood. Your immune system relies heavily on white blood cells to help stave off illness.
A red blood cell count (RBC) is a test that counts the red blood cells in your blood. All ofyour body’s tissues receive oxygen thanks to red blood cells.
Hematocrit and haemoglobin tests: These check the level of haemoglobin in your blood. Red blood cells’ hue is provided by the iron-rich protein haemoglobin. It also distributes oxygen throughout the rest of your body from your lungs. The hematocrit test calculates your blood’s proportion of red blood cells.
Platelet count: This determines how many platelets are present in your blood. Specialized blood cells called platelets aid in blood coagulation.
Your doctor might request a CBC as part of a routine examination or to assist identify and track several conditions, including:
A CBC test is generally safe and carries very few risks, however, as with any medical procedure, there are a small number of potential complications, such as:
CBC Test: Results
Results of your CBC blood test may vary depending on the lab that did your test, but thereare a few things that all results will have in common. Firstly, you will see your white blood cell (WBC) count, this is the number of white blood cells in your blood, which can be an important indicator of infection or inflammation.
You will also see your red blood cell (RBC) count, this is the number of red blood cells in your blood, which can be an important indicator of anaemia or other disorders.
Other important values that may be reported on your CBC blood test results include your mean corpuscular volume (MCV) and platelet count. Platelets are the blood cells that help to clot your blood, so their count can be an important indicator of bleeding disorders.
If any of your CBC values fall outside the normal range, it does not necessarily mean that you have a medical condition. However, it may be a sign that further testing is needed to rule out a problem. Your doctor will discuss your results with you and help to determine if any additional testing or treatment is necessary.
Conclusion
You won’t have to do any additional preparation steps if you have a CBC blood test. If your doctor wants to examine your lipid levels, you could be requested to fast for a few hoursprior. Additionally, the blood draw will be quick and simple if you simply show up for your appointment
