A complete blood count (CBC) is a blood test. It's used to look at overall health and find a wide range of conditions, including anemia, infection and leukemia.
A complete blood count test measures the following-
Red blood cells, which carry oxygen
White blood cells, which fight infection
Hemoglobin, the oxygen-carrying protein in red blood cells
Hematocrit, the amount of red blood cells in the blood
Platelets, which help blood to clot
A complete blood count can show unusual increases or decreases in cell counts. Those changes might point to a medical condition that calls for more testing.
A complete blood count is a common blood test done for many reasons-
To look at overall health. A complete blood count can be part of a medical exam to check general health and to look for conditions, such as anemia or leukemia.
To diagnose a medical condition. A complete blood count can help find the cause of symptoms such as weakness, fatigue and fever. It also can help find the cause of swelling and pain, bruising, or bleeding.
To check on a medical condition. A complete blood count can help keep an eye on conditions that affect blood cell counts.
To check on medical treatment. A complete blood count may be used to keep an eye on treatment with medicines that affect blood cell counts and radiation. |