CBC
Alternate Names : Complete Blood Count
Definition
A complete blood count (CBC) test measures the following:
- The number of red blood cells (RBCs)
- The number of white blood cells (WBCs)
- The total amount of hemoglobin in the blood
- The fraction of the blood composed of red blood cells (hematocrit)
- The mean corpuscular volume (MCV) -- the size of the red blood cells
CBC also includes information about the red blood cells that is calculated from the other measurements:
- MCH (mean corpuscular hemoglobin)
- MCHC (mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration)
The platelet count is also usually included in the CBC.
Pictures & Images
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Red Blood Cells, Sickle Cell
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Megaloblastic Anemia - View of Red Blood Cells
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Red Blood Cells, Tear-Drop Shape
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Red Blood Cells, Normal
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Red Blood Cells, Elliptocytosis
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Red Blood Cells, Spherocytosis
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Red Blood Cells, Multiple Sickle Cells
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Basophil (Close-Up)
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Malaria, Microscopic View of Cellular Parasites
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Malaria, Photomicrograph of Cellular Parasites
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Red Blood Cells, Sickle Cells
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Red Blood Cells, Sickle and Pappenheimer
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Red Blood Cells, Target Cells
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Formed Elements of Blood
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 See all Pictures & Images
Why is the Test Performed?
The CBC is a screening test, used to diagnose and manage numerous diseases. The results can reflect problems with fluid volume (such as dehydration) or loss of blood. It can show abnormalities in the production, life span, and rate of destruction of blood cells. It can reflect acute or chronic infection, allergies, and problems with clotting.
MCV, MCH, and MCHC values reflect the size and hemoglobin concentration of individual cells and are useful in the diagnosis of various types of anemia.
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