Complete Blood Test
New Series of Article on Introduction to various Tests
A complete blood count (CBC) is a common blood test that
provides valuable information about your overall health. Let’s break it down:
Red Blood Cells (RBCs):
Normal Range: Typically, for adults, RBC count ranges from
4.5 to 5.5 million cells per microliter (µL) of blood.
Explanation: RBCs carry oxygen from the lungs to the body
tissues. Abnormal levels may indicate anemia or other blood disorders.
Hemoglobin (Hb):
Normal Range: Usually, Hb levels range from 12 to 16 grams
per deciliter (g/dL) for women and 13.5 to 17.5 g/dL for men.
Explanation: Hemoglobin is the protein in RBCs that binds to
oxygen. Low Hb levels can lead to fatigue and weakness.
White Blood Cells (WBCs):
Normal Range: Typically, WBC count ranges from 4,500 to
11,000 cells/µL.
Explanation: WBCs play a crucial role in the immune system.
Elevated levels may indicate infection or inflammation.
Platelets:
Normal Range: Platelet count usually falls between 150,000
and 450,000 cells/µL.
Explanation: Platelets help with blood clotting. Abnormal
levels can affect clotting ability.
Remember that reference ranges can vary based on factors
like age, sex, and individual health.