Complete Blood Count (CBC) Test

Meaning of Complete Blood Count Test
CBC test means complete blood count test. This is a test that measures all the characteristics of the cells in the blood. It comprises testing levels of red blood cells (RBCs), white blood cells (WBCs), and platelets. CBC test also measures the characteristics of the cells like haemoglobin (Hb) concentration and help in calculating other related values like haematocrit, mean corpuscular volume (MCV), Mean corpuscular haemoglobin concentration (MCHC).

Reason/when to take the Complete Blood Count Test
There are several reasons why CBC test might be recommended. Some of the most common ones are:

- As a part of routine blood investigation for study, work, or health insurance

- Before a surgical procedure

- If there are symptoms like poor health, easy fatigue, weakness

- If there is cough, fever, and sore throat for more than a few days

Parameters considered during CBC Test
CBC test includes the following parameters:

1. Red Blood Cell (RBC) measurements:

- RBC count

- Haemoglobin

- Haematocrit

2. White blood Cell (WBC) measurements:

- WBC count

- Differential count

3. Platelet Count

4. Blood Indices:

- Mean corpuscular volume

- Mean corpuscular haemoglobin

- Mean corpuscular haemoglobin concentration

- Red cell distribution width

Understanding the CBC Test Report
1. Red blood cell count:

Lower than normal value suggests either insufficient production or faster destruction. Reduced red cell production may be because of depressed bone marrow or insufficient supply of material needed to produce new cells like protein and iron deficiency. It suggests anaemia Higher than normal count suggests polycythaemia and thicker blood. It means the bone marrow is working in overdrive.

2. White blood cell count:

Lower levels suggest reduced immunity, bone marrow suppression

Higher values suggest infection, allergies, or bone marrow dysfunction.

3. Platelet count:

Lower value suggests bleeding tendencies, easy bruising, bone marrow suppression

Higher value suggests increased chances of internal clotting.

4. Blood Indices:

Lower than normal values of blood indices suggest anaemia, bone marrow suppression, or iron deficiency whereas higher than normal values suggest thick blood, vitamin B12 deficiency, dehydration.

Conditions/disease detected under Complete Blood Count Test

- Anaemia

- Polycythaemia

- Bone marrow suppression

- Infections

- Auto immune diseases

- Some types of cancers

- Allergic reactions

- Iron and Vitamin B12 deficiencies

CBC Test preparation
Preparations for CBC Test is not special or different from other tests. Fasting is not required for CBC blood test. Prescription medications may be continued till the date of the test. Blood thinners, steroid supplements, immunosuppressants need to be stopped 48 hours prior to the test under medical guidance.

Risks and limitations of CBC Test
Risk:

- Bleeding from the site of collection

- Infection

Limitations:

- Interference with the results

- Alcohol consumption and smoking can affect the results

- Heavy and strenuous exercise can alter some parameters

- Misinterpretation of the results

Booking at home CBC test with Orange Health Labs across cities
Getting a CBC test has never been easier. Now you can book a CBC test with Orange Health through our app or online. We offer services in almost all major cities across India. Just log into your account on our website and fill in your address. Our trained and vaccinated eMedics (phlebotomist) will collect the sample from your home/ office within one hour of booking. The results of your CBC lab Test can be sent to you via What´s App or by email.