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One of the most common blood tests, the complete blood count (CBC) includes counts of all three types of blood cells present in a blood sample: red blood cells (RBC), white blood cells (WBC) and platelets (thrombocytes). As one of the first steps in evaluating a patient’s physical health, it is often done:
- As part of a diagnostic work-up
- During a routine check-up
- Before surgery or other specialized treatments
- To monitor progress during treatment
The CBC can provide important information about the types of blood cells present, their condition, number and percentage in relation to other cells. A CBC can be used to achieve the following:
- Obtain a picture of a patient’s overall health status
- Rule out certain diseases or deficiencies
- Estimate fluid levels
- Diagnose a disease, allergy, abnormal condition or inflammation
- Follow and manage a patient’s treatment
- Diagnose infection
- Diagnose diseases of the blood, such as leukemia
- Detect anemia (lack of hemoglobin - a protein in red blood cells)
- Determine the severity of a blood loss
- Monitor the patient’s response to drug or radiation treatment
- Investigate abnormal bleeding or clotting disorders
A CBC may be performed in a hospital or clinic. A nurse or other healthcare professional will draw the blood needed for the test from a vein, usually in the inside of the elbow or the back of the hand. Some patients may experience slight discomfort as the needle is inserted and positioned in the vein.
There is a small risk of dizziness, bruising and infection as a result of the blood withdrawal. Patients who are taking blood-thinning medications (e.g., warfarin, heparin, aspirin) should inform their healthcare professional before the test. These types of medication may increase the risk of excessive bleeding.
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