What does a complete blood count detect?

It detects anemia, infections, clotting problems, and blood diseases by measuring red blood cells, white blood cells, hemoglobin, hematocrit, and platelets.

Do I need to fast for a CBC?

In most cases fasting is not required, but check with your laboratory as some may recommend it for greater accuracy.

How often should I get a CBC?

At least once a year as part of a general checkup, or more frequently if you have medical conditions that require closer monitoring.

Hematology

Complete Blood Count (CBC)

The complete blood count evaluates the three main types of blood cells: red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. It helps detect anemia, infections, clotting disorders, and hematological diseases. It is one of the most commonly ordered laboratory tests in clinical practice.

Preparation

Fasting is generally not required, although some laboratories may request it. Inform your doctor about any medications you are taking.

Included Tests

LOINC	Test	Unit	Range
26464-8	Leukocytes (WBC)	10*3/uL	4.5 – 11
789-8	Red Blood Cells (RBC)	10*6/uL	4.2 – 5.9
718-7	Hemoglobin	g/dL	12 – 17.5
4544-3	Hematocrit	%	36 – 52
787-2	Mean Corpuscular Volume (MCV)	fL	80 – 100
28539-5	Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin (MCH)	pg	27 – 33
28540-3	Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin Concentration (MCHC)	g/dL	32 – 36
777-3	Platelets	10*3/uL	150 – 400
788-0	Red Cell Distribution Width (RDW)	%	11.5 – 14.5

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Frequently Asked Questions

Other Guides

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