What Is CBC Blood Test? CBC is one of the most common types of blood tests ordered by physicians. It provides a general overview of a patients health. Red cells, white cells and platelets are counted in the sample. Abnormally high or low counts of cells may indicate the presence of disease. A CBC is commonly ordered during routine annual physical examinations.
What Does CBC Stand For?
CBC stands for complete blood count. It is also known as hemogram, full blood count (FBC), full blood exam (FBE) or blood panel. It counts several major components (red & white blood cells, hemoglobin, hemtocrit and platelets) of your blood and is used to evaluate your overall health and detect a wide range of disorders. Abnormally high or low counts may indicate a medical condition that will require further evaluation.
Why Is It Done?
A CBC screens for a variety of medical disorder (such as anemia or leukemia) and provides a general assessment of your overall health. It is ordered as part of a routine medical examination, prior to surgery, for diagnosing and monitoring medical conditions and treatments.
How Is It Done?
A blood sample is taken from the patients arm with a syringe and sent to a lab for analysis. A CBC can detect a wide range of disorders, including anemia, infection and leukemia.
What Are The Risks?
The only risks are those associated with drawing a sample of blood (soreness or bruising at the sampling point).
Do I Have To Prepare?
No. You can eat and drink normally before the test.
What Happens After The Test?
CBC results do not provide a definitive diagnosis. Abnormal results provide an indicator for the doctor that a problem may exist and that further testing may be necessary.
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