Ordering the Complete Blood Count (CBC) + Differential + Platelets
The Complete Blood Count (CBC) + Differential + Platelets test measures several key blood components, including red and white blood cells, hemoglobin, hematocrit, and platelets. This test helps identify possible causes of symptoms like tiredness, frequent bruising, or ongoing infections by providing a detailed look at your blood’s makeup. Interestingly, this test can also help detect certain vitamin deficiencies, such as vitamin B12, which may not show obvious symptoms at first.
Ordering this test can provide specific benefits, including:
- Detecting early signs of anemia by measuring red blood cell and hemoglobin levels
- Identifying possible infections through changes in white blood cell counts and types
- Monitoring platelet counts to check for bleeding or clotting problems
- Tracking changes in blood cell counts for people with ongoing conditions or after certain treatments
- Helping doctors decide if further testing is needed based on abnormal results
Who Might Benefit from a Blood Cell and Platelet Panel
Someone who has been feeling unusually tired for several weeks, with no clear reason, may benefit from this test. For example, a person who notices more frequent nosebleeds or bruises after minor bumps might find answers by checking their blood cell and platelet levels.
Ordering this test may also be helpful in these situations:
- Experiencing ongoing fatigue that does not improve with rest
- Having frequent or unexplained infections
- Noticing unusual bleeding or bruising after minor injuries
- Monitoring blood counts during or after certain medical treatments, such as chemotherapy
- Tracking changes in blood cell counts for people with a family history of blood disorders, even if no symptoms are present
This test gives clear numbers for red and white blood cells, hemoglobin, and platelets, which can help find the cause of symptoms like tiredness, frequent infections, or easy bruising. Delaying this test could mean missing early changes in blood counts, which may make it harder to find and treat the cause of these symptoms quickly.
Order this test to get a detailed look at your blood cell and platelet levels.
Preparing for a Blood Cell Count and Platelet Analysis
Fasting is not required for this test, so you can eat and drink as usual before your appointment. Always follow any instructions your doctor or healthcare provider gives you to make sure your sample is collected properly and your results are as useful as possible.
Labs Included When Ordering Your Complete Blood Count (CBC) + Differential + Platelets
| Test Name | Reference Range | What It Measures | Low and High Levels of Complete Blood Count (CBC) + Differential + Platelets |
|---|---|---|---|
| White Blood Cell Count (WBC) | 3.8 – 10.8 | Counts the number of white blood cells in your blood. White blood cells help fight infections and respond to inflammation. |
High levels mean your body may be fighting an infection or inflammation.
Low levels mean your immune system may be weaker, making it harder to fight infections. |
| Red Blood Cell Count (RBC) | 4.20 – 5.80 | Measures the number of red blood cells, which carry oxygen from your lungs to the rest of your body. |
High levels mean your blood may be thicker, which can cause circulation problems.
Low levels mean you may not be getting enough oxygen to your tissues, often seen in anemia. |
| Hemoglobin (Hgb) | 13.2 – 17.1 | Shows the amount of hemoglobin, a protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen. It helps check for anemia or other blood issues. |
High levels mean your body may be making too many red blood cells or you may be dehydrated.
Low levels mean you may have anemia or blood loss. |
| Hematocrit (Hct) | 38.5 – 50.0 | Shows the percentage of your blood made up of red blood cells. It helps find out if you have too few or too many red blood cells. |
High levels mean your blood is thicker, which can increase the risk of clots.
Low levels mean you may have anemia or blood loss. |
| Mean Corpuscular Volume (MCV) | 80 – 100 | Shows the average size of your red blood cells. It helps find out what type of anemia you may have. |
High levels mean your red blood cells are larger than normal, which can be caused by vitamin B12 or folate deficiency.
Low levels mean your red blood cells are smaller, often seen in iron deficiency anemia. |
| Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin (MCH) | 27 – 33 | Shows the average amount of hemoglobin in each red blood cell. It helps find out the cause of anemia. |
High levels mean your red blood cells have more hemoglobin, which can be seen in some types of anemia.
Low levels mean your red blood cells have less hemoglobin, often due to iron deficiency. |
| Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin Concentration (MCHC) | 32 – 36 | Shows the average concentration of hemoglobin in your red blood cells. It helps check for different types of anemia. |
High levels mean your red blood cells are more concentrated with hemoglobin, which can be seen in hereditary conditions.
Low levels mean your red blood cells are less concentrated, often due to iron deficiency. |
| Platelet Count and Volume | 140 – 400 | Counts the number and size of platelets, which help your blood clot and stop bleeding after injuries. |
High levels mean your blood may clot more easily, which can increase the risk of clots.
Low levels mean you may bleed or bruise more easily. |
| Neutrophils | 40 – 74 | A type of white blood cell that helps fight bacterial infections. It is often the first responder to infection in the body. |
High levels mean your body may be fighting a bacterial infection or inflammation.
Low levels mean you may be at higher risk for infections. |
| Lymphocytes | 14 – 46 | A type of white blood cell that helps fight viral infections and supports your immune system’s memory. |
High levels mean your body may be fighting a viral infection or certain blood disorders.
Low levels mean your immune response may be reduced. |
| Monocytes | 4 – 13 | A type of white blood cell that helps remove dead or damaged cells and fights some infections. |
High levels mean your body may be responding to chronic infection or inflammation.
Low levels mean your body may have a reduced ability to fight certain infections. |
| Eosinophils | 0 – 7 | A type of white blood cell that helps fight allergies and some infections, especially those caused by parasites. |
High levels mean you may have allergies, asthma, or a parasitic infection.
Low levels mean your body is not currently reacting to these triggers. |
| Basophils | 0 – 2 | A type of white blood cell involved in allergic reactions and inflammation. They release chemicals that help control immune responses. |
High levels mean your body may be reacting to allergies or inflammation.
Low levels mean your body is not currently experiencing these reactions. |
Reference ranges can change over time. For the most current values, visit the Quest Diagnostics lab test directory.
Complete Blood Count (CBC) + Differential + Platelets FAQ
Is there Complete Blood Count + Differential + Platelets testing near me?
You can find nearby locations for Complete Blood Count + Differential + Platelets using the patient service center locator, which also lists mobile phlebotomy options. For people who need regular blood monitoring or have trouble traveling, having a convenient site makes it easier to get timely results and manage ongoing symptoms.
What is the cost of the test?
The price for this test includes all fees, such as sample collection at patient service center locations. Ordering this test is worth it because it can help explain symptoms like tiredness or frequent infections by giving clear blood cell counts.
How often should I retest?
Most people retest every 3 to 12 months, depending on their symptoms or if they are monitoring a known condition. Regular retesting helps track changes in blood cell counts, which can show if treatments are working or if new issues are developing.
How accurate is the test?
This test uses automated hematology analyzers with flow cytometry and impedance methods, which are highly specific and sensitive for counting and classifying blood cells. Specificity is about 99.5% and sensitivity is about 98.5%. TrueHealthLabs.com partners with CLIA-certified laboratories to uphold rigorous testing standards for dependable results.
Medical Review Board
Reviewed by Jeff Donohue M.D. from Body Logic and Brady Hurst DC, CCCN. Written by True Health Lab’s team of editorial health contributors.
Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and not intended as medical advice. Consult your healthcare provider for personalized guidance.
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