What is this test?
This laboratory test is performed on blood to evaluate the size, shape, number, and color of the blood cells including RBCs, WBCs, and platelets. It helps in diagnosing a variety of diseases and medical conditions.
Why is this test performed?
This test is performed:
- To confirm abnormal CBC results
- To diagnose blood related disorders
- To identify the type of infection
- To monitor the efficacy of treatment.
- What are the symptoms of a blood disorder?
Following symptoms may indicate a blood disorder:
- Fatigue
- Pallor
- Unusual bleeding or bruising
- Bone pain
- Unexplained jaundice
- Persistent flu
- Sudden weight loss.
- What do abnormal red blood cells indicate?
It may indicate:
- Anemia
- Thalassemia
- Bone marrow disorders.
- What do abnormal white blood cells indicate?
It may indicate:
- What are the risks of this test?
This test has very minor risks, like:
Bruising on the site of injection
Pain on the site of injection
Redness on the site of injection.
- How to prepare for the test?
There are no special preparations for this test. Inform your doctor about prescribed and non-prescribed use of medicines, and any bleeding disorders.
Normal values:
RBCs
- diameter: 7-8 µm
- color: Reddish pink
- Shape: Biconcave
WBCs
- Neutrophils: 10-18 µm
- Eosinophils: 10-15 µm
- Basophils: 10-15 µm
- Monocytes: 12-20 µm
- Lymphocytes: 10-12 µm
Platelets
- Shape: Lens-like (biconcave discoid)
- Diameter: 2-3 µm
- Interpretation of test results:
Any abnormalities in the size, shape, color, or number may indicate a blood disorder.
