A CBC (Complete Blood Count) is a type of blood test that measures different components of the blood, such as red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. It is a common diagnostic tool used by doctors to assess a person’s overall health and detect any abnormalities or underlying medical conditions.
During a CBC scan, a small sample of blood is taken from a vein in the arm and sent to a laboratory for analysis. The blood is then analyzed using automated machines that can quickly and accurately measure various components of the blood.
The CBC scan measures several different components of the blood, including:
Red Blood Cells (RBCs): These are the cells responsible for carrying oxygen throughout the body. The CBC measures the number of RBCs in the blood, as well as the amount of hemoglobin (the protein in RBCs that carries oxygen) and hematocrit (the percentage of RBCs in the blood).
White Blood Cells (WBCs): These are cells that help the body fight infection and disease. The CBC measures the total number of WBCs in the blood, as well as the different types of WBCs (such as neutrophils, lymphocytes, monocytes, eosinophils, and basophils).
Platelets: These are cells that help the blood to clot. The CBC measures the number of platelets in the blood.
Hemoglobin (Hb): This is the protein in RBCs that carries oxygen. The CBC measures the amount of hemoglobin in the blood.
Hematocrit (Hct): This is the percentage of RBCs in the blood. The CBC measures the hematocrit to assess how much of the blood is made up of RBCs.
A CBC scan can provide important information about a person’s overall health, including:
Anemia: A low number of RBCs or hemoglobin can indicate anemia, which is a condition in which the body does not have enough red blood cells to carry oxygen throughout the body.
Infection: An increase in the number of WBCs, especially neutrophils, can indicate an infection or inflammation in the body.
Bleeding disorders: A low number of platelets can indicate a bleeding disorder, which is a condition in which the blood does not clot properly.
Dehydration: A high hematocrit can indicate dehydration, which is a condition in which the body does not have enough fluid.
Overall, a CBC scan is a simple and non-invasive test that can provide important information about a person’s health. It is commonly used by doctors to assess a person’s overall health and detect any underlying medical conditions.
