science Lab Test

Complete Blood Count (CBC): What Your Results Mean

A Complete Blood Count (CBC) is one of the most commonly ordered blood tests in medicine. It measures the three main types of cells in your blood — red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets — providing a comprehensive snapshot of your overall health and helping detect a wide range of conditions from anemia to infection to blood cancers.

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What It Tests

The CBC measures red blood cell count, hemoglobin, hematocrit, MCV, MCH, MCHC, RDW, white blood cell count and differential, and platelet count.

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Why It's Ordered

Doctors order a CBC to screen for anemia, infection, immune disorders, clotting problems, and certain cancers. It is also used to monitor patients on chemotherapy or other medications that affect blood cells.

Markers in This Test

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Ferritin
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Hemoglobin
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Platelet Count
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WBC (White Blood Cell Count)
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Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to fast for a CBC? expand_more
Fasting is generally not required for a CBC. However, if other tests are being done simultaneously (like glucose or lipids), fasting may be required.
What conditions can a CBC detect? expand_more
A CBC can detect anemia, infection, leukemia, lymphoma, clotting disorders, dehydration, bone marrow problems, and inflammatory conditions.
What does a low RBC count mean? expand_more
A low RBC count indicates anemia — your blood has fewer red cells to carry oxygen, which can cause fatigue, shortness of breath, and pale skin.
How often should I get a CBC? expand_more
Annual CBC is common as part of routine health checks. More frequent testing is needed when monitoring chronic conditions, medication effects, or recovery from illness.
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