What cbc test can detect?

Results in the following areas above or below the normal ranges on a complete blood count may indicate a problem.

• Maintain your blood pressure, blood glucose, and blood cholesterol within target range.
• Cut back on salt and choose a balanced diet.
• Keep yourself physically active.
• Take medicines the way your provider tells you to.
• Do not self-medicate.
• Get tested from time to time to keep an eye on kidney health.

Red blood cell count, hemoglobin and hematocrit: The results of your red blood cell count, hemoglobin and hematocrit are related because they each measure aspects of your red blood cells.

If the measures in these three areas are lower than normal, you have anemia. Anemia causes fatigue and weakness. Anemia has many causes, including low levels of certain vitamins or iron, blood loss, or an underlying condition.

A red blood cell count that’s higher than normal (erythrocytosis), or high hemoglobin or hematocrit levels, could point to an underlying medical condition, such as polycythemia or heart disease.

White blood cell count: A low white blood cell count (leukopenia) may be caused by a medical condition, such as an autoimmune disorder that destroys white blood cells, bone marrow problems or cancer. Certain medications also can cause white blood cell counts to drop.

If your white blood cell count is higher than normal, you may have an infection or inflammation. Or, it could indicate that you have an immune system disorder or a bone marrow disease. A high white blood cell count can also be a reaction to medication.

Platelet count: A platelet count that’s lower than normal (thrombocytopenia) or higher than normal (thrombocytosis) is often a sign of an underlying medical condition, or it may be a side effect from medication. If your platelet count is outside the normal range, you’ll likely need additional tests to diagnose the cause.