Complete Blood Count (CBC)

Also known as : CBC ; Hemogram ; CBC with Differential
Formal name : Complete Blood Count
Related tests : Blood Smear ; Hemoglobin ; Hematocrit ; Red Blood Cell (RBC) Count ; White Blood Cell (WBC) Count ; White Blood Cell Differential Count; Platelet Count , Reticulocyte Count

Why should I do it ?
To determine your general health status ; to screen for , diagnose , or monitor any one of a variety of diseases and conditions that affect blood cells , such as anemia , infection , inflammation , bleeding disorder or cancer

When should I do it ?
As part of a routine medical exam ; when you have signs and symptoms that may be related to a condition that affects blood cells ; at regular intervals to monitor treatment or when you are receiving treatment known to affect blood cells

What Kind of Sample is Needed ?
A blood sample drawn from a vein in the arm or a fingerstick or heelstick ( newborns )

Test Preparation Needed ?
None