Description
Sample Required for CBC Test:
The Complete Blood Count (CBC) requires a blood sample , which is collected in a purple vaccutainer (test tube). A healthcare professional will collect the sample by performing a simple blood draw from a vein in your arm.
CBC Test Time:
The test time for a Complete Blood Count may vary depending on the laboratory and the specific components being analyzed. Typically, the results are available within a few hours to a day.
CBC Test Normal Range:
The normal range for various components in a Complete Blood Count can vary depending on factors such as age, sex, and specific laboratory reference values. It includes parameters such as red blood cell count, white blood cell count, hemoglobin levels, platelet count, and other related values. The interpretation of the results should be done by a healthcare provider based on individual factors.
Below is the reference table for CBC Test Normal Values:
| Parameter | Normal Range |
| Hemoglobin (Hb) | Male: 13.8 – 17.2g/dL
Female: 12.1 – 15.1g/dL |
| Hematocrit (Hct) | Male: 38.3 – 48.6%
Female: 35.5 – 44.9% |
| Red Blood Cells (RBC) | Male: 4.32 – 5.72 million/μL
Female: 3.90 – 5.03 million/μL |
| White Blood Cells (WBC) | 4500 – 11,000 cells/μL |
| Platelet Count | 150,000 – 450,000 cells/μL |
| Mean Corpuscular Volume (MCV) | 80 – 100 femtoliters (fL) |
| Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin (MCH) | 27 – 33 picograms (pg) |
| Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin Concetration (MCHC) | 32 – 36 g/dL |
What is the CBC test?
The Complete Blood Count (CBC) is a common blood test that provides important information about the components of your blood. It measures various blood cell types, including red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. The test helps in assessing overall health, detecting and monitoring various conditions, and evaluating the body’s immune system.
Complete Blood Count Test Procedure:
During a Complete Blood Count, a healthcare professional will collect a blood sample from your arm using a needle. The blood sample is then sent to the laboratory for analysis. In the laboratory, automated machines are used to count and analyze the different types of blood cells present.
When to take the test:
The timing for a Complete Blood Count may vary depending on the specific situation or as advised by your healthcare provider. It can be done as part of a routine health check-up, when evaluating symptoms such as fatigue, unexplained bruising or bleeding, recurrent infections, or as directed by your healthcare provider.
Who should take this test:
A Complete Blood Count is recommended for individuals of all ages, as it provides important information about overall health and helps in detecting various medical conditions. It may be ordered as part of a routine check-up, pre-surgical assessment, or to monitor the progress of a specific condition.
Precautions for exceptional cases (pregnancy, etc.):
For pregnant women or individuals with specific medical conditions, additional considerations may be required for a Complete Blood Count. It is important to inform your healthcare provider about any specific medical conditions or pregnancy before undergoing the test.
FAQs for Complete Blood Count (CBC):
Q1: Is fasting required before a Complete Blood Count?
A: Fasting is generally not required for a Complete Blood Count. You can eat and drink normally before the test.
Q2: Can medications affect the results of a Complete Blood Count?
A: Yes, certain medications, such as blood thinners or steroids, can impact the results of a Complete Blood Count. It’s important to inform your healthcare provider about any medications or supplements you are taking before the test.
Q3: Can a CBC detect all cancers?
A: A Complete Blood Count can provide important information that may indicate the presence of certain types of blood cancers . However, further diagnostic tests, are typically needed for a definitive diagnosis.
Q4: How often should I have a Complete Blood Count?
A: The frequency of a Complete Blood Count depends on individual factors and the recommendations of your healthcare provider. It may be done as a one-time evaluation, as part of routine check-ups, or as directed by your healthcare provider based on your specific health condition and needs.
Q5: Can a Complete Blood Count diagnose all medical conditions?
A: A Complete Blood Count is a valuable tool in detecting and monitoring various medical conditions, but it cannot provide a comprehensive diagnosis on its own. Further evaluation, including additional tests and clinical assessment, is often needed for a definitive diagnosis.
Q6: Does CBC test show kidney function?
A: CBC primarily focuses on the cellular components of blood, such as red and white blood cells and platelets. It does not directly measure kidney function. Kidney function is typically assessed through tests like serum creatinine or blood urea nitrogen (BUN).
Q7: What diseases can a CBC detect?
A: CBC can provide valuable information about various health conditions, including anemia, infection, inflammation, and blood disorders. It is not disease-specific but aids in diagnosing underlying conditions.
Q8: What blood test shows anemia?
A: CBC is the primary blood test used to diagnose anemia. It assesses hemoglobin levels, red blood cell count, and related parameters to determine if anemia is present.
Q9: Can CBC detect diabetes?
A: A CBC alone cannot diagnose diabetes. Diabetes diagnosis relies on tests such as fasting blood sugar, oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT), or hemoglobin A1C (HbA1C) to measure blood glucose levels over time.
Q10: What is the cost of the CBC test?
A: Quality healthcare shouldn’t be a luxury. Medicas is dedicated to make all tests and health packages affordable for everyone, ensuring top-notch care is within reach. The cost of the CBC test is just Rs 229.
