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Complete Blood Count (CBC)

General Health

5 minutesBlood draw

A comprehensive blood test that evaluates overall health by measuring several blood components.

Duration
5 minutes
Sample Type
Blood draw ()
Results Timeline
1-2 business days
Usually no special preparation needed

How to Prepare

Follow these instructions to ensure accurate test results

No fasting usually required
Check with your doctor as some conditions may require fasting
Stay hydrated
Drink plenty of water to make blood draw easier

Day of Your Test

  • Wear a short-sleeved shirt or easily rolled-up sleeves
  • Take regular medications unless advised otherwise
  • Inform technician of any bleeding disorders

What This Measures

To detect a wide range of disorders including anemia, infection, and blood diseases.

  • Red blood cells - carry oxygen throughout your body
  • White blood cells - fight infections and diseases
  • Hemoglobin - protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen
  • Hematocrit - percentage of blood volume made up of red blood cells
  • Platelets - help blood clot properly

Why This Test Matters

CBC can help detect conditions like anemia, infection, clotting problems, blood cancers, and immune system disorders. It's often used as a routine health screening.

Normal Ranges

Red Blood Cells (RBC)
Oxygen carriers
4.5-5.5 million/µL (men), 4.0-5.0 million/µL (women)
White Blood Cells (WBC)
Immune cells
4,500-11,000/µL
Hemoglobin
Oxygen-carrying protein
13.5-17.5 g/dL (men), 12.0-16.0 g/dL (women)
Platelets
Blood clotting cells
150,000-400,000/µL

Reference intervals vary by laboratory, analyzer, methodology, population, and units. The ranges shown here are for education only. Always interpret your results against the reference interval printed on your own lab report.

After the Test

  • Keep bandage on for 1-2 hours
  • Avoid heavy lifting with that arm for several hours
  • Resume normal activities immediately

Understanding Results

If High

High WBC may indicate infection or inflammation. High RBC or hemoglobin could suggest dehydration or other conditions.

If Low

Low RBC or hemoglobin indicates anemia. Low WBC may indicate immune system issues. Low platelets can affect blood clotting.

Good to Know

  • Results are affected by hydration levels
  • Strenuous exercise before the test can temporarily alter results
  • Certain medications can affect blood counts
  • Altitude can affect red blood cell counts

Follow Up

  • Review results with your doctor
  • Additional tests may be ordered based on results
  • Routine screening: every 1-2 years for healthy adults

Source: Test preparation information is based on standard clinical guidelines and laboratory best practices. This information is provided for reference purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always follow the specific instructions provided by your healthcare provider or laboratory.