Blood cell count

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(Redirected from Full blood count)

Blood cell count is a medical laboratory test that measures the number of blood cells in a given volume of blood. This test is crucial for diagnosing and monitoring various medical conditions, including anemia, infection, and leukemia. Blood cell count is typically part of a complete blood count (CBC), which provides detailed information about the different types of blood cells present in the blood.

Types of Blood Cells[edit | edit source]

Blood cells are broadly categorized into three main types:

  • Red blood cells (RBCs) - These cells are responsible for carrying oxygen from the lungs to the rest of the body and returning carbon dioxide to the lungs for exhalation.
  • White blood cells (WBCs) - These cells are part of the immune system and help the body fight infections and other diseases.
  • Platelets - These cell fragments play a crucial role in blood clotting and wound healing.

Complete Blood Count (CBC)[edit | edit source]

A complete blood count (CBC) is a comprehensive test that includes the following measurements:

Clinical Significance[edit | edit source]

Abnormal blood cell counts can indicate a variety of health issues:

Procedure[edit | edit source]

The blood cell count is typically performed using an automated analyzer, which counts and categorizes the cells in a blood sample. The procedure involves: 1. Drawing a blood sample from a vein, usually in the arm. 2. Placing the sample in a test tube containing an anticoagulant to prevent clotting. 3. Analyzing the sample using an automated machine that provides a detailed report of the blood cell counts.

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