COMPLETE BLOOD COUNT

A complete blood count (CBC) is a common blood test that checks the components of the blood such as red and white blood cells, hemoglobin, hematocrit and platelets, and multiple such as anemia, infection, and leukemia. This test is useful to determine the state of health of the patient and the status of the diseases the patient has which may include blood cells disorders.

The CBC tests the levels of various other determinants of health. It evaluates the concentration of red blood cells, also called erythrocytes, which are the cells that transport oxygen; the amount of white blood cells, leukocytes that function in immune response; the pigment in red blood cells that allows these cells to carry oxygen –hemoglobin; the volume percentage of red blood cells in the blood, called the hematocrit; and the measurement of blood clotting factors, known as platelets. These factors assist in determining different disease states and the management of an oral health problem.

A CBC test is often performed whenever done as part of a test battery. So usually one tests once a year as part of routine check-up. It is especially recommended when a person has complaints of feeling tired or exhausted, weakness, swelling, bruises or bleeding. It is additionally utilized for the diagnosis of disorders or the presence of conditions influencing the blood cells and for control of some diseases that are known to affect the blood.

When having a CBC there are minimal associated risks involved, with the most common ones being soreness or slight bruising at the injection site. Moreover, results may sometimes be inaccurate because of external factors such as vigorous exercise or drugs. Also, a CBC will indicate if there is some form of problem but it cannot determine in isolation the disease. In the majority of cases, a conclusive diagnosis is dependent on other test results which are usually required.

There are several parameters that constitute the CBC:

• RBC Count: Gives the measurement of the blood’s capacity to carry oxygen
• WBC Count: Serves as a benchmark for the strength of the immune system
• Hemoglobin Levels: Measure the amount of oxygen-carrying components in the blood.
• Hematocrit Percentage: It refers to the volume fraction of red blood cells in blood.
• Platelet Count: It assess the capacity of the blood to clot.

Every parameter provides indications regarding your health status as well as your conditions that may require medical attention.

Those who feel fatigued for unknown reasons, weakness or having fever or infected can look up for a CBC. Patients with blood disorders or those receiving treatment such as chemotherapy that alters the number of blood cells would ideally need constant monitoring of CBC on a regular basis. It is also applicable for those individuals who are getting their health check-up done at regular intervals.

The Importance of the CBC can be seen when it is used for the detection of conditions such as anemia, as well as an important tool in the diagnosis and treatment of more serious diseases like leukemia. The CBC is an inexpensive yet useful test for assessing an individual’s overall state of health. The role of the CBC in detecting a variety of conditions is expanding as it enables patients to bypass unnecessary treatments. The CBC can also monitor the effectiveness of ongoing therapies such as chemotherapy.

The CBC can assist in the diagnosis and management of a variety of ailments, including:

-leukemia -anemia -infections -blood clotting disorders -immune system disorders

It is one of the basic tools in the diagnosis of patients and the management of a variety of disorders.

Prerequisites: There are no special requirements that need to be completed beforehand in order to take the test. However, do not engage in vigorous activities in the hours leading to the test as those may interfere with the blood component levels.

Eligibility: Any individual regardless of age who wishes to undergo a check-up or is being treated for something that alters blood condition is eligible to take these tests.

Procedure for Taking the Test: The test requires taking a small amount of blood which is collected from the arm by making use of a needle. This procedure is quite simple and takes only a few minutes to finish.

Caution Before the Test: Make sure to notify your physician about any meds that you are currently on since some of them might possibly influence the outcome of the exam.