CBC stands for Complete Blood Count.
A CBC is a common blood test that measures several components of your blood, including:
- Red blood cells (RBCs): Carry oxygen throughout the body.
- White blood cells (WBCs): Fight infection.
- Platelets: Help blood clot.
- Hemoglobin: The protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen.
- Hematocrit: The percentage of red blood cells in your blood.
A CBC can help diagnose a variety of conditions, such as:
- Anemia: A condition in which your blood doesn't have enough healthy red blood cells.
- Infection: An invasion of the body by harmful microorganisms.
- Bleeding disorders: Conditions that make it difficult for your blood to clot.
- Cancer: Certain types of cancer can affect blood cells.
Your doctor may order a CBC as part of a routine checkup or if you have symptoms that suggest a blood disorder.
