Complete Blood Count Test (CBC)
Dr. Sreelekha DaruvuriLast Updated on 28th October 2021Request a Call Back
What is the CBC Test Used For?
What is included in a CBC test?
A Complete Blood Count test usually includes the following:
- Red blood cell (RBC) count: Red blood cells are also known as erythrocytes and the main function of red blood cells is to carry oxygen from the lungs to the entire body. It also carries back carbon dioxide to the lungs. If the RBC count is low, it is known as anemia, the body will not receive enough oxygen. There is also a condition called polycythemia where the red blood cells can get clumped together and block the capillaries.
- White blood cell (WBC) count: White blood cells are also known as leukocytes. They protect our bodies against infection. When a foreign particle enters our body, the WBC fights against the foreign particle. The overall count of white blood cells is less than red blood cells. Whenever there is an infection, the count of white blood cells increases. White blood cells are also used for detecting infection.
- Platelet count: Platelets are also known as thrombocytes and these are the smallest type of blood cell. They are important in blood clotting. When bleeding starts, platelets swell and clump together to form a sticky plug that will stop the bleeding. If the platelet count is low in the body, it becomes difficult to stop bleeding. If the platelet count is high in the body, it may form a clump and block a blood vessel. There is also a condition known as atherosclerosis where the platelets may be involved in the blocking of the arteries.
- Hemoglobin: The red blood cell is filled with hemoglobin molecules. It is responsible for the color red and it also carries oxygen. Through a hemoglobin test, the amount of hemoglobin is measured and the ability of the body to carry oxygen throughout the body.
CBC Test procedure
A complete blood count test (CBC) is carried out by a lab technician.
- The place from where the blood sample is collected is first cleaned.
- An elastic band is placed above the cleaned area so that the veins swell with blood.
- A needle is inserted into the vein for the collection of the sample.
- The blood sample is then pulled into a syringe.
- After collecting the blood sample, the needle and the elastic band is removed.
How to prepare for the CBC test?
If you are being tested only for a complete blood count, then there is no restriction on the consumption of the type of food and drinks. If there are any additional tests conducted, then fasting before the test is mandatory. Depending on the tests and medications you are undergoing, your doctor will instruct you.
Things to consider after the CBC test is completed
Once the CBC test is completed, you can carry on with your day-to-day activities. The test results will be available on the MFine app for download within the next 24-48 hours. Once the test results are downloaded, you will receive a call from the doctor who will help you understand the test results. If there are any concerns, based on the results, the doctor will suggest medications.
What Type of Infections can a CBC test Detect?
Along with the overall count of the blood cells, the following are the other reasons why a complete blood count test is done:
- If you are suffering from fever
- If the doctor suspects any kind of infections
- If you are feeling weak and losing sudden weight
- Continuous bruising or bleeding
- Detection of cancer
How much does the CBC Test Cost?
The cost of the CBC test may vary from city to city. However, the prices may be between ₹100 and ₹200. From the below table, you can book the CBC test:
City Name | Starting Price |
---|---|
CBC Test Cost in Bangalore | ₹ 199 |
Book CBC Test in Chennai | ₹ 199 |
Book CBC Test in Delhi | ₹ 159 |
Book CBC Test in Gurgaon | ₹ 159 |
Book CBC Test in Hyderabad | ₹ 99 |
Book CBC Test in Kolkata | ₹ 199 |
Book CBC Test in Mumbai | ₹ 199 |
Book CBC Test in Noida | ₹ 159 |
Book CBC Test in Pune | ₹ 199 |
How long does it take to get CBC Test Results?
The blood report will be updated on the MFine app within the next 24-48 hours after the blood sample is collected.
Is CBC a Definitive Test?
No, a complete blood count test is not a definitive test. This test is recommended by your doctor for various reasons and depending on that the results may vary. Again depending on the test, the follow-up will be scheduled.
How to read the CBC Blood Test Report?
Blood cells | Biological reference in healthy individuals (Normal value) | Unit |
---|---|---|
White blood cells | 4500 to 11000 | cells per microlitre |
Red blood cells in men | 4.5 million to 5.9 million | cells per microlitre |
Red blood cells in women | 4.1 million to 5.1 million | cells per microlitre |
Platelets | 150,000 to 450,000 | Platelets per microlitre |
Haemoglobin in men | 14 to 17.5 | grams per deciliter |
Haemoglobin in women | 12.3 to 15.3 | grams per deciliter |
Hematocrit in men | 41.5% to 50.4% | – |
Hematocrit in women | 35.9% to 44.6% | – |
Mean corpuscular volume | 80 to 96 | – |
CBC Test at Home - Why to book?
- With comprehensive lab tests and health packages, you can access CBC blood tests using the MFine mobile app.
- You can also check online for the best diagnostic centres and consult with the best doctors in your city.
- MFine mobile app lets you consult with the best doctors over instant chat or video consultations.
- A medical professional from Thyrocare, Healthians or Prima Diagnostics will visit your home and collect the blood sample.
- The reports for the same would be available on the MFine app within 48 hours of sample collection.
Where to get the CBC Test done?
Book a Complete Blood Count test online from the certified lab partners in your city through the MFine app. Choose your preferred lab partner and get a complete blood count test at home.
Certified Lab Partners of MFine for CBC Test
CBC test at home - How it works?
For further assistance
Frequently Asked Questions - FAQs
Can we conduct a CBC test at home?
Yes, the test can be conducted at home.
My CBC test result shows white blood cell count as 3500 cells per microliter what does it mean?
The count of the white blood cell should be between 4500 to 11000 cells per microlitre. If the count is below 4500 that means it is low. Your doctor will suggest the required medications to increase the count.
Who should get a CBC test done?
Anyone who is above 18 years can get the CBC test done. It can be done in children when the infection is suspected. This test is usually done twice a year to detect any possible health conditions.
When should a CBC test be done?
A CBC test is done when the doctor finds symptoms such as anaemia, weakness, allergic responses, inflammation, injuries, or any other blood-related diseases.
What is measured during the CBC test?
During the CBC test, red blood cells, white blood cells, platelet count, and haemoglobin levels are measured.
What diseases are detected with the help of the CBC tests?
The CBC test helps in detecting diseases such as anaemia, leukaemia, inflammation, infections, autoimmune diseases, lymphoma, and low platelet counts.
Is fasting required before the CBC test?
No, fasting is not required before the CBC test. However, if the doctor has recommended other tests along with the CBC test, then fasting is required as the food and drinks consumed before the test may affect the test results.
Is detection of blood cancer possible with the help of a Complete Blood Count test?
Yes, it is possible to detect blood cancer with the help of a Complete Blood Count test, but it is not a definitive test However, it is advised to consult the doctor for a better interpretation of the test results.
References
- Complete blood count for screening
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5638475/ - Complete Blood Count or Complete Blood Count with Differential: What’s the Difference?
https://www.amjmed.com/article/S0002-9343(17)30393-5/fulltext - Blood Test: Complete Blood Count
https://www.rchsd.org/health-articles/blood-test-complete-blood-count/