A full blood count (FBC), also known as a complete blood count (CBC), is a common blood test that provides valuable information about the overall health of an individual. It is a routine diagnostic procedure often ordered by healthcare professionals to assess various components of the blood. The test involves measuring and analyzing different blood cell types and parameters, offering insights into potential health issues and helping in the diagnosis and monitoring of various medical conditions.

The FBC typically includes the following key components:

Red Blood Cell (RBC) Count: This measures the number of red blood cells in a given volume of blood. RBCs contain hemoglobin, a protein that carries oxygen to tissues and organs.

Hemoglobin (Hb) Concentration: Hemoglobin is the oxygen-carrying pigment in red blood cells. The hemoglobin concentration indicates the blood’s ability to transport oxygen.

Hematocrit (Hct) Level: Hematocrit is the proportion of blood that is composed of red blood cells. It is expressed as a percentage.

White Blood Cell (WBC) Count: This measures the number of white blood cells, which are crucial for the immune system’s function and defence against infections.

Differential White Blood Cell Count: This provides the percentages of different types of white blood cells (neutrophils, lymphocytes, monocytes, eosinophils, and basophils). An abnormal distribution may indicate specific medical conditions.

Platelet Count: Platelets are small cell fragments that play a crucial role in blood clotting. Platelet count is important for assessing the risk of bleeding and clotting disorders.

Mean Corpuscular Volume (MCV): MCV measures the average volume of a red blood cell. It helps classify anemia and provides information about the size of red blood cells.

Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin (MCH): MCH measures the average amount of hemoglobin in a red blood cell. It is useful in the diagnosis of anemia.

Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin Concentration (MCHC): MCHC measures the concentration of hemoglobin in a given volume of red blood cells. It provides information about the hemoglobin content in individual cells.

A full blood count is a versatile and valuable tool for diagnosing and monitoring a variety of medical conditions, including anemia, infections, leukemia, and inflammatory disorders. Interpretation of the results requires consideration of the patient’s medical history, symptoms, and other relevant clinical information. It is important to consult with a healthcare professional for a thorough analysis and appropriate follow-up based on the FBC results.

Sample Requirement

Blood Sample Type:

Venous Blood: A venous blood sample is most commonly used for FBC. It is drawn from a vein, usually in the arm, using a needle and a collection tube.