What is a complete blood count?
- Red blood cells: They carry oxygen from the lungs to the rest of the body
- White blood cells: Fight infections. There are five main types of white blood cells. A CSC measures the total number of white blood cells in the blood. A test called CSC with leukocyte formula also measures the percentages of each type of white blood cell
- Platelets: Help the blood to clot and stop bleeding
- Hemoglobin: A protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen from the lungs to the rest of the body
- Hematocrit: Measurement of the total volume of red blood cells in the blood
A complete blood count can also include measurements of chemicals and other components of the blood. These results can give your doctor important information about your general health and your risk of certain diseases.
Other names of a complete blood count: CSC, complete blood count, blood count
Fasting for the blood test
Antithyroid antibodies
Skin Biopsy
Breast Biopsy
For what do you use it?
A complete blood count is a common blood test that is usually included as part of a routine checkup. It is used to detect many diseases, for example, infections, anemia, diseases of the immune system and cancers of the blood.
Why do I need a complete blood count?
Your doctor or health professional may request a complete blood count as part of your checkup or to evaluate your general health. In addition, this analysis can be used to:
- Diagnose a blood disease, an infection, diseases of the immune system and other medical problems
- Tracking an existing blood disorder
What happens during a complete blood count?
A doctor or health professional takes a blood sample from a vein in one arm using a small needle. After inserting the needle, remove a small amount of blood and place it in a test tube or vial. You may feel mild discomfort when the needle is inserted or removed. This process usually takes less than five minutes.
Will I have to do something to prepare for the test?
Generally, no special preparation is required for a complete blood count. If your doctor has ordered other tests with your blood sample, you may be instructed not to eat or drink anything for several hours before the test. Your doctor or health professional will tell you if you should follow any special instructions.
Does this test have any risk?
The risks of a blood test are minimal. You may feel mild pain or a bruise where the needle is inserted, but most symptoms disappear quickly.
What do the results mean?
A complete blood count counts the different components and measures the levels of various substances in the blood. The results may be outside normal limits for many reasons, for example:
- Abnormal levels of red blood cells, hemoglobin, or hematocrit may indicate anemia, iron deficiency, or heart disease
- A low white blood cell count may indicate an autoimmune disorder, a bone marrow disorder, or cancer
- A high white blood cell count may indicate an infection or a reaction to a medication
If any of the levels are abnormal, that does not necessarily mean there is a medical problem that requires treatment. Diet, activity level, medications, a woman's menstrual cycle, and other considerations can affect the results. Ask your doctor or health professional what your results mean.
Is there anything else I need to know about the complete blood count?
The complete blood count is just one of the tools that the doctor uses to obtain information about your health. To come up with your diagnosis, you will consider your medical history, symptoms and other factors. You may also recommend other tests and follow-up care.
Post a Comment
Post a Comment