Hct low blood test results. Hematocrit Test: Understanding Low HCT Blood Test Results and Full Blood Count Analysis

25.06.202312.06.2023 by alexxlab

What is a hematocrit test. How is a full blood count performed. What are the components of blood. What abnormalities can a full blood count reveal. How do low HCT results impact health.

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What is a Hematocrit Test and Why is it Important?

A hematocrit (HCT) test is a crucial component of a full blood count (FBC) that measures the proportion of red blood cells in your blood. This test provides valuable insights into your overall health and can help diagnose various conditions. Low HCT results may indicate anemia or other blood disorders, while high levels could suggest dehydration or certain medical conditions.

The hematocrit test is typically performed as part of a comprehensive blood analysis, which examines various aspects of your blood composition. Understanding your HCT levels is essential for maintaining optimal health and identifying potential health issues early on.

The Full Blood Count: A Comprehensive Analysis of Your Blood

A full blood count (FBC) is a common diagnostic tool used to assess overall health and detect a wide range of illnesses, infections, and diseases. This test examines the various components of your blood, providing a detailed picture of your body’s well-being.

How is a Full Blood Count Performed?

The process of obtaining a full blood count typically involves the following steps:

A healthcare professional draws a blood sample from a vein in your hand or arm.
The blood is collected in a special vial containing an anticoagulant to prevent clotting.
The sample is sent to a laboratory for analysis using specialized equipment.
Results are compared to established normal ranges to identify any abnormalities.

In most cases, no special preparation is required before the test. The procedure is generally quick and involves minimal discomfort.

Understanding the Components of Blood

Blood is a complex fluid that makes up approximately 7-8% of your body weight. For a person weighing 70 kg, this translates to about 5-5.5 liters of blood. To fully comprehend the significance of HCT and FBC results, it’s essential to understand the main components of blood:

Plasma (60%): The liquid portion of blood, consisting of water, fat, protein, sugar, and salts.
Red blood cells (erythrocytes): Contain hemoglobin, which carries oxygen throughout the body.
White blood cells (leukocytes): Part of the immune system, fighting infections and diseases.
Platelets: Essential for blood clotting and preventing excessive bleeding.

Each of these components plays a vital role in maintaining your health and well-being. Abnormalities in any of these elements can indicate underlying health issues.

Decoding Full Blood Count Results: What Do They Mean?

A full blood count provides a wealth of information about your blood composition. Here are some key parameters assessed in an FBC:

Total count of red cells, white cells, and platelets
Hematocrit (ratio of red cells to plasma)
Count of each white cell subset
Average hemoglobin level in red cells
Average size of red cells

These results are compared to established normal ranges to identify any abnormalities. Deviations from these ranges can indicate various health conditions and may require further investigation.

Low HCT Results: Causes and Implications

Low hematocrit results, also known as anemia, can have several causes and implications for your health. Some common reasons for low HCT include:

Iron deficiency in the diet
Blood loss
Chronic diseases (e.g., kidney disease)
Nutritional deficiencies
Bone marrow disorders

Low HCT levels can lead to fatigue, weakness, shortness of breath, and other symptoms. If you have low HCT results, your healthcare provider will likely recommend additional tests to determine the underlying cause and develop an appropriate treatment plan.

Identifying Abnormalities in Full Blood Count Results

Full blood count results can reveal various abnormalities that may indicate underlying health issues. Some common abnormalities include:

Red Blood Cell Abnormalities

Low red blood cell count or hemoglobin levels may suggest anemia, while high levels (polycythemia) could indicate conditions such as:

Polycythemia vera
Kidney disease
Chronic lung disease
Physiological changes due to living at high altitudes

White Blood Cell Abnormalities

Abnormal white blood cell counts can provide insights into various health conditions:

Low levels (leucopenia) may suggest viral infections, bone marrow diseases, or exposure to chemotherapy or radiotherapy.
High levels (leucocytosis) could indicate bacterial infections, inflammation, or certain types of cancer.

Platelet Abnormalities

Abnormal platelet counts can affect blood clotting and overall health:

Low platelet count (thrombocytopenia) may increase the risk of bleeding and bruising.
High platelet count (thrombocytosis) could indicate underlying inflammation or certain blood disorders.

It’s important to note that many factors can influence blood test results, and abnormalities should always be interpreted in the context of an individual’s overall health and medical history.

The Importance of Regular Blood Tests in Preventive Healthcare

Regular blood tests, including full blood counts and hematocrit tests, play a crucial role in preventive healthcare. These tests can help:

Detect early signs of health issues before symptoms appear
Monitor the progression of existing conditions
Assess the effectiveness of treatments
Guide lifestyle modifications for better health

By understanding your blood test results and working closely with your healthcare provider, you can take proactive steps to maintain optimal health and address any potential issues before they become more serious.

Interpreting Blood Test Results: When to Seek Medical Advice

While it’s essential to understand your blood test results, it’s equally important to know when to seek medical advice. Consider consulting your healthcare provider if:

Your test results fall outside the normal range
You experience persistent symptoms despite normal test results
You have questions or concerns about your results
You’re unsure how to interpret your results in the context of your overall health

Remember that blood test results are just one piece of the puzzle when it comes to your health. Your healthcare provider can help you interpret these results in conjunction with your medical history, symptoms, and other factors to provide a comprehensive assessment of your health status.

Lifestyle Factors That Can Affect Blood Test Results

Various lifestyle factors can influence your blood test results, including your hematocrit levels. Being aware of these factors can help you better understand and manage your health:

Diet and Nutrition

Your diet plays a significant role in maintaining healthy blood composition. Consider the following dietary factors:

Iron intake: Consuming iron-rich foods or supplements can help prevent anemia and low HCT levels.
Vitamin B12 and folate: These nutrients are essential for red blood cell production.
Hydration: Proper hydration is crucial for maintaining an appropriate balance of blood components.

Exercise and Physical Activity

Regular physical activity can positively impact your blood health:

Moderate exercise can stimulate red blood cell production.
Intense endurance training may temporarily decrease hematocrit levels due to plasma volume expansion.

Altitude

Living at high altitudes can affect your blood composition:

The body produces more red blood cells to compensate for lower oxygen levels at higher elevations.
This can result in naturally higher hematocrit levels for individuals living at high altitudes.

Stress and Sleep

Chronic stress and poor sleep habits can impact your blood health:

Stress can affect white blood cell counts and immune function.
Lack of sleep may influence various blood parameters, including inflammation markers.

By understanding these lifestyle factors, you can make informed decisions to support your overall health and potentially improve your blood test results.

The Future of Blood Testing: Advancements in Technology

The field of blood testing is continuously evolving, with new technologies and methodologies emerging to provide more accurate and comprehensive results. Some exciting developments include:

Point-of-Care Testing

Advancements in point-of-care testing allow for rapid blood analysis in various settings:

Portable devices can perform quick hematocrit tests and other blood analyses.
Results can be obtained within minutes, enabling faster clinical decision-making.

Genetic Testing and Personalized Medicine

The integration of genetic testing with traditional blood tests is opening new possibilities:

Genetic markers can provide insights into an individual’s predisposition to certain blood disorders.
This information can guide personalized treatment plans and preventive strategies.

Artificial Intelligence in Blood Analysis

AI and machine learning are revolutionizing blood test interpretation:

Advanced algorithms can detect subtle patterns and anomalies in blood test results.
This technology may help identify early signs of diseases that might be missed by traditional analysis methods.

These advancements promise to enhance the accuracy, speed, and scope of blood testing, ultimately improving patient care and outcomes.

Common Misconceptions About Blood Tests and Hematocrit Levels

There are several misconceptions surrounding blood tests and hematocrit levels that can lead to confusion or unnecessary concern. Let’s address some of these common misunderstandings:

Misconception: All Abnormal Results Indicate Serious Health Issues

While abnormal results can signify health problems, they don’t always indicate severe conditions:

Temporary factors like recent illness or medication can affect results.
Some people naturally have values slightly outside the typical range without any health implications.

Misconception: Hematocrit Levels Are Static

Hematocrit levels can fluctuate over time:

Factors like hydration status, recent physical activity, and time of day can influence results.
Repeated tests may be necessary to establish a clear pattern or trend.

Misconception: Higher Hematocrit Is Always Better

While low hematocrit can indicate anemia, excessively high levels aren’t necessarily beneficial:

Very high hematocrit levels can increase the risk of blood clots and other complications.
Optimal hematocrit levels fall within a specific range, and both low and high extremes can be problematic.

Understanding these misconceptions can help you interpret your blood test results more accurately and have more informed discussions with your healthcare provider.

Preparing for Your Blood Test: Tips for Accurate Results

To ensure the most accurate blood test results, including your hematocrit levels, consider the following tips:

Fasting Requirements

Some blood tests require fasting, while others don’t:

Confirm with your healthcare provider whether fasting is necessary for your specific tests.
If fasting is required, typically avoid food and drinks (except water) for 8-12 hours before the test.

Medication Considerations

Certain medications can affect blood test results:

Inform your healthcare provider about all medications, supplements, and herbal products you’re taking.
Ask whether you should temporarily discontinue any medications before the test.

Hydration

Proper hydration is important for accurate results:

Drink plenty of water in the days leading up to your test, unless instructed otherwise.
Avoid excessive alcohol consumption, which can affect hydration levels.

Timing

Consider the timing of your blood test:

Some blood components have natural fluctuations throughout the day.
If possible, schedule your test at a consistent time for follow-up comparisons.

By following these preparation tips, you can help ensure that your blood test results, including your hematocrit levels, accurately reflect your current health status.

Blood count – Better Health Channel

Summary

Read the full fact sheet

A full blood count (FBC) test looks for abnormalities in your blood, such as unusually high or low numbers of blood cells.
This common blood test can help to diagnose a wide range of illnesses, infections and diseases.
Your doctor may arrange further tests to help determine the cause of the abnormality.

The full blood count (FBC) is a common test that can help to diagnose a wide range of illnesses, infections and diseases. The doctor, nurse or technician takes a blood sample from you using a needle inserted into a vein in your hand or the crook of your elbow.

The blood sample is collected inside a special vial that contains a chemical to prevent the blood from clotting. The sample is sent to a laboratory and put into a machine for analysis. The FBC test looks for abnormalities in your blood, such as unusually high or low numbers of blood cells. If an abnormality is found, your doctor will usually arrange further tests to find the cause of the abnormality.

Blood count procedure

In most cases, no special preparation is needed before the test. The procedure normally includes the following:

At the surgery, you are asked to sit or lie down.
A tourniquet is put around your arm and tightened to increase blood volume in your veins. The doctor, nurse or technician may ask you to clench and unclench your fist to help swell your veins with blood.
The injection site is wiped with an alcohol preparation to clean the site and reduce the risk of infection.
The doctor, nurse or technician inserts a needle into your vein and draws the blood, which is collected inside a syringe or vial. You may experience some discomfort during the procedure, but this is usually minimal.
Once the blood sample has been taken, the person taking the sample will ask you to press gauze or cotton wool against the injection site to minimise bleeding. They will cover the injection site with an adhesive dressing. You may have minor bruising at the injection site for a day or two.

Blood explained

Approximately seven to eight per cent of your body weight is blood. This means a person who weighs 70 kg has approximately 5 to 5.5 litres of blood.

Blood has four main components. The main component (60 per cent) is the liquid called plasma, which is made up of water, fat, protein, sugar and salts. Blood cells make up the other 40 per cent and include:

red blood cells – known as erythrocytes. Every red blood cell contains haemoglobin, a protein that carries oxygen. Haemoglobin contains iron, which is important for carrying oxygen around the body
white blood cells – known collectively as leukocytes. These are cells of the immune system that fight infection. The different types of white blood cells include lymphocytes, eosinophils, monocytes, neutrophils and basophils.
platelets – help to clot the blood to stop bleeding.

Blood has numerous functions which include: transporting oxygen and nutrients to the tissues, transporting white cells and antibodies to fight infection, forming blood clots to prevent bleeding, and carrying waste products to the liver and kidneys which assist in filtering and cleaning the blood.

Full blood count assessment

The full blood count test:

counts the total number of red cells, white cells and platelets in the sample
determines the ratio of red cells to plasma (‘haematocrit’ or ‘packed cell volume’)
determines the count of each of the white cell subsets
works out the average haemoglobin level in the red cells (‘mean cell haemoglobin’)
measures the average size of the red cells (mean cell volume)
if required, reviews the blood cells under a microscope (blood smear/film).

Abnormalities in a full blood count

The results of a full blood count are compared to charts that list the normal range of numbers and ratios for each type of blood cell. A result above or below the normal range may indicate an abnormality.

Many illnesses, diseases or infections other than the ones listed below can cause an abnormal full blood count result. Abnormalities of the blood sample may include:

red blood cells and haemoglobin – low levels (anaemia) may suggest not enough iron in the diet, blood loss or certain chronic diseases (such as kidney disease). High levels (polycythaemia) may suggest polycythaemia vera, kidney disease, chronic lung disease or physiological changes due to living in areas of high altitude
red blood cell to plasma ratio – a lower-than-normal ratio of red blood cells to plasma suggests the person may have anaemia. The opposite finding suggests that the person may be dehydrated or has too many red cells (polycythaemia)
white blood cells – low levels (leucopenia) may suggest the person has a viral infection, bone marrow disease or has been exposed to chemo- or radiotherapy. High levels (leucocytosis) may suggest bacterial infection, an inflammatory disease or bone marrow disease
platelets – low levels (thrombocytopenia) may be the result of taking some medications, viral infection, bone marrow disorders, or an autoimmune disorder. High levels (thrombocythaemia) may suggest the presence of a bone marrow disease or an inflammatory condition.

Ask your doctor for further information about these tests.

Blood smear

A ‘blood smear’ is when a thin film of your blood sample is examined under a microscope.

A blood smear can reveal:

a range of diseases including red blood cell disorders (such as sickle cell anaemia)
the presence of blood-borne parasites such as malaria
a white blood cell disorder such as lymphoma or leukaemia.

Full blood count and accuracy

The full blood count test is not foolproof and errors sometimes occur. If this happens, your doctor will want to repeat the test. Errors may include:

failure of the equipment – for example, the blood clots in the vial
incorrect labelling of the sample
incorrect handling of the specimen – for example the sample is left in the sun and deteriorates
contamination of the sample
alcohol in the blood.

Where to get help

Your GP (doctor)

This page has been produced in consultation with and approved
by:

How to Read Blood Test Results, Normal Ranges in Cancer Care

This page was reviewed under our medical and editorial policy by

Bradford Tan, MD, Chair, Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, City of Hope Atlanta, Chicago and Phoenix.

This page was reviewed on September 25, 2022.

A patient’s care team may order several blood tests to help detect, diagnose or treat cancer, or monitor the effects of treatment. Each test measures different substances in the blood. Blood tests may be performed every few weeks or months so the care team can compare the results over time.

It’s helpful to go over your test results with your cancer care team and ask them to explain the results to you. Make sure to ask any questions you have. You may also want to ask for a copy of the test results for your records.

Asking your care team questions about your tests is a great way to learn more about your care and treatment. Consider asking the questions below before and after the test.

Questions to ask before the test:

What will this test tell us?
How will I get my test results?
How is this test done?
Do I need to change my routine before the test, such as not having anything to eat or drink?

Questions to ask after the test:

What do my test results mean?
How accurate is this test?
What are my next steps?
Do I need more tests?
When is the next time I’ll have this test?

Complete blood count (CBC) test results

A CBC test is one of the most common blood tests. It measures the main components of your blood.

A CBC test may be used to diagnose some blood cancers, such as leukemia. It’s also common to have a CBC test after you’ve been diagnosed, to help your care team get a bigger picture of your overall health.

A CBC test can help your care team:

See if cancer has spread to bone marrow
Monitor how your body is reacting to treatment, such as chemotherapy
Diagnose another condition you might have, like anemia (low blood iron) or an infection

Main components of a CBC test

White blood cells

These cells help your body fight infection. There are many different types of white blood cells, each with its own specific job. A CBC shows the levels of several types of white blood cells, called neutrophils, lymphocytes, monocytes, eosinophils and basophils. Your care team will pay close attention to your neutrophil level. Low levels of neutrophils may mean you’re at higher risk of an infection.

Red blood cells

These cells carry oxygen to cells throughout the body, and they carry carbon dioxide away from your cells. In addition to an overall red blood cell count, a CBC measures the levels of hemoglobin (a part of the red blood cell that is rich in iron) and hematocrit (the percent of red blood cells in the blood). Low levels of red blood cells indicate anemia, which can cause you to feel tired and lack energy. High levels may indicate dehydration.

Platelets

Platelet cells help your blood clot, which helps control bruising and bleeding when you have a wound or injury. Your platelet count can help your care team know if you’re at high risk for bleeding problems.

Complete blood count normal ranges

The numbers below show what the normal ranges for the main components of a CBC look like. Some components have different normal ranges for women and men.

Normal ranges for CBC components:

White blood cells (WBC):
- Women: ;4,500 to 10,000 cells/mcL
- Men: 4,500 to 10,000 cells/mcL
Red blood cells (RBC):
- Women: 4. 2 to 5.4 million cells/mcL
- Men: 4.7 to 6.1 million cells/mcL
Hemoglobin (Hgb):
- Women: 12.1 to 15.1 gm/dL
- Men: 13.8 to 17.2 gm/dL
Hematocrit (Hct):
- Women: 36.1% to 44.3%
- Men: 40.7% to 50.3%
Platelets (Plt):
- Women: 150,000 to 450,000/dL
- Men: 150,000 to 450,000/dL

Keep in mind that there are many reasons that certain levels could be abnormal. Factors such as recent diet and activity may affect the results. Your cancer care team can help you understand your results, catch things early and avoid complications.

Comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP) results

A comprehensive metabolic panel—also called a blood chemistry panel—is another type of blood test that measures 14 different substances in your blood. This blood test can help your care team get information about your metabolism, or how your body is using food and spending energy.

A CMP measures substances like:

Sugars
Fats (lipids)
Proteins
Electrolytes
Enzymes

Your care team may use a CMP to see how your body is responding to treatment. Some treatments can change the level of certain substances in your blood.

Some side effects from treatment—like vomiting and diarrhea—may cause you to be dehydrated, which can affect your blood chemistry, too. You won’t feel these changes in your blood chemistry level until it’s a bigger problem.

A CMP measures many different substances, and each one tells your care team something different about your body. Your care team may monitor electrolytes, for example, to see how you’re handling treatments and to make sure you’re not dehydrated. They may monitor certain waste products to see how well your kidneys or liver are working. And they may look at enzyme and protein results to see how your liver is functioning.

Check with your doctor, as you may need to fast before having a CMP.

Your care team may also order a basic metabolic panel (BMP) depending on the information they need. A BMP measures only eight of the substances that a CMP does and doesn’t include testing liver function and proteins.

Comprehensive metabolic panel normal ranges, according to the National Library of Medicine:

BUN (blood urea nitrogen), kidney waste product: 20 mg/dL
Calcium, mineral: 8.5–10.2 mg/dL
Carbon dioxide, electrolyte: 23–29 mEq/L
Chloride, electrolyte: 96–106 mmol/L
Creatinine, kidney waste product: 0.6–1.3 mg/dL
Glucose, sugar: 70–100 mg/dL
Potassium, electrolyte: 3.7–5.2 mEq/L
Sodium, electrolyte: 135–145 mEq/L
Albumin, liver protein: 3.5–5.4 g/dL
ALP (alkaline phosphatase), liver enzyme: 20–130 U/L
ALT (alanine transaminase), liver enzyme: 4–36 U/L
AST (aspartate aminotransferase), liver enzyme: 8–33 U/L
Bilirubin, liver waste product: 0. 1–1.2 mg/dL
Total protein, blood protein: 6.0–8.3 g/dL

Complete blood count – article by DNAOM laboratory

Published:
02/15/2022

Updated:

05/08/2022

Anemia
Prevention

Complete blood count

A complete blood count (CBC), or a clinical blood test, refers to laboratory tests that allow you to assess the general condition of the hematopoietic system. With the help of this study, anemia, signs of inflammatory and infectious processes, allergies, as well as oncohematological diseases can be detected.

Erythrocytes

Erythrocytes are the most numerous group of blood cells. In one liter of blood, there are several trillion (x1012) red blood cells. RBC precursors are produced in the bone marrow, and after maturation, RBCs enter the bloodstream. The life span of red blood cells in the bloodstream is normally 110-130 days.

The main function of erythrocytes is the delivery of oxygen from the lungs to the tissues of other organs and the transport of carbon dioxide from the tissues to the lungs. Mature erythrocytes do not contain a nucleus and, due to their shape, easily pass through even the smallest capillaries, providing oxygen to all tissues of the body.

In the general blood test, several indicators associated with erythrocytes are distinguished:
RBC (red blood cells) – the total number of erythrocytes in the blood volume. A change in the number of erythrocytes is usually associated with changes in the level of hemoglobin. When the number of red blood cells and the level of hemoglobin are reduced, the patient has anemia, when it is increased, polycythemia.
Hb (hemoglobin) – hemoglobin, respiratory pigment, consisting of two parts: non-protein (“heme”) containing iron, and protein (“globin”). The main function of hemoglobin is to bind and retain O2 in oxygenated tissues, but to release O2 and bind CO2 in tissues requiring oxygen. This property of hemoglobin allows you to maintain the necessary acid-base balance of the blood.
HCT- (hematocrit) – hematocrit. A calculated indicator that reflects the ratio of the total volume of erythrocytes to blood plasma. Thus, the hematocrit is the percentage equivalent (by volume) of red blood cells in the blood.
MCV — mean volume of erythrocyte. With a large number of abnormal red blood cells (for example, sickle cell anemia), the MCV count is unreliable.
RDW – distribution of erythrocytes by volume. This indicator reflects the degree of heterogeneity (difference) of erythrocytes in size.
MCH – the average content of hemoglobin in one erythrocyte.
MCHC is the average concentration of hemoglobin in one volume of erythrocytes, an indicator reflecting the saturation of an erythrocyte with hemoglobin

MCV, RDW, MCH, MCHC, reflecting the various characteristics of erythrocytes in the bloodstream, are important indicators in diagnosing the causes of anemia.
If necessary, the analysis of erythrocytes can be supplemented with a count of RET reticulocytes (immature erythrocytes), as well as a microscopic blood test to determine additional morphological features of erythrocytes.

Platelets

Platelets are the second largest group of cells in the blood. In one liter of blood, there are several hundred million (x1011) platelets. The lifespan of platelets in the bloodstream is only 5-10 days, after which the cells are destroyed in the spleen and liver.

Platelets are small non-nuclear spherical cells. The main function of platelets is participation in the processes of blood coagulation. When the walls of the vascular bed are damaged, activated platelets are sent to the site of the violation and participate in the processes of adhesion and aggregation. Thus, a thrombus is formed from platelets and fibrin – a plug that closes the damage.

In the general blood test, there are several indicators associated with platelets:
PLT (platelets) – the total number of platelets in the blood volume.
PCT (thrombocrit) – thrombocrit. A calculated indicator that reflects the ratio of the total volume of platelets to blood plasma. Thrombocrit is the percentage equivalent (by volume) of platelets in the blood.
MPV is the mean platelet volume.
PDW – distribution of platelets by volume.

Leukocytes

Leukocytes (white blood cells) are the smallest and most heterogeneous group of blood cells. In one liter of blood, there are several million (x109) leukocytes. Like other groups of cells, leukocyte precursors are formed in the bone marrow, and after differentiation and maturation, the cells enter the bloodstream, where they remain from several hours to several months. Leukocytes in the bloodstream are regularly updated, and in response to any injury and infection, their number in the bloodstream increases dramatically.

A common property of all leukocytes is their participation in the processes of immune defense, therefore leukocytes are also called “inflammatory cells”. There are 5 main populations (5-diff analysis) of leukocytes: neutrophils, lymphocytes, monocytes, eosinophils or basophils

Neutrophils make up 60-70% of all leukocytes in adults. They are [A9] the main defenders of the body against the effects of foreign agents. They carry out their main function in the fight against microorganisms by phagocytosis.

Lymphocytes are representatives of leukocytes responsible for the immune response. It is generally accepted that the cause of inflammation can be differentiated by the number of lymphocytes and neutrophils – bacterial or viral. Of course, this criterion cannot be considered the only one in a diagnostic search, but should be considered as a primary examination.

Monocytes – belong to the system of mononuclear phagocytes, the main role of which is not only to remove foreign agents, but also destroyed their own cells. Like neutrophils, they perform their protective function, including with the help of phagocytosis.

Eosinophils are blood cells involved in the body’s defense response when ingested by allergens, helminths and parasites. They make up only 0.5-5% of all leukocytes.
Basophils make up 0.5% of all leukocytes, take part in the development of allergic reactions, in particular the immediate type. Therefore, together with eosinophils, they can indicate the presence of allergic pathology.

There are also early forms of leukocytes – myelocytes (promyelocytes, myeloblasts), which in healthy people do not enter the blood from the bone marrow, as they are immature forms, precursors of leukocytes. Their appearance in the blood is always associated with the risks of hematopoietic disorders, tumor processes in the bone marrow.

In the general blood test, several main indicators associated with leukocytes are distinguished:
WBC (white blood cells) – the total number of leukocytes in the blood volume.
(NEU, NEU%) – absolute number and percentage of neutrophils.
(LYM, LYM %) – absolute number and percentage of lymphocytes.
(MON, MON%) – absolute number and percentage of monocytes.
(EOS, EOS %) – absolute number and percentage of eosinophils
(BAS, BAS %) – absolute number and percentage of basophils.

If necessary, automatic analysis of leukocytes (5-diff) on a hematology analyzer can be supplemented by microscopic analysis of the leukocyte formula, which allows you to isolate and evaluate additional subpopulations of leukocytes, as well as determine other morphological features of cells

Indications for the appointment of a complete blood count

In a comprehensive primary diagnosis of the general condition of the body, as part of planned studies, medical examinations of the population.
If anemia is suspected, including in persons at risk – frequent, prolonged blood loss, the presence of chronic diseases, accompanied by risks of hidden bleeding.
In the complex diagnostics of the infectious process, with the aim of diagnosing bacterial or viral inflammation.
Routine examination before hospitalization or planned manipulations.
Comprehensive examination of patients with blood diseases.
Monitoring the effectiveness of ongoing therapy for previously diagnosed diseases, accompanied by changes in the general blood test.

Preparation

It is recommended to take blood on an empty stomach (8-12 hours). In exceptional cases, not earlier than 6 hours after the last meal (for children – before the next meal). If possible, eliminate high emotional and physical stress the day before.

Interpretation of results

Erythrocytes [A16] :

Hemoglobin/Hematocrit
An increase in hemoglobin / hematocrit, red blood cell counts are usually signs of insufficient water content in the body as a result of dehydration, erythrocytosis and erythremia

A decrease in hemoglobin / hematocrit, red blood cell counts are always signs of one or another type of anemia, less often – overhydration.

MCV (mean cell volume)/MCH (mean cell hemoglobin) :
An increase in MCV, MCH, MCHC values usually reflects the presence of anemia in the body caused by a lack of B vitamins – B12 and B9. Changes in these parameters also occur in severe anemia – aplastic, autoimmune, as well as in diseases of the liver, thyroid gland.

A decrease in the listed parameters accompanies the development of iron deficiency anemia, anemia of chronic diseases, thalassemia and some types of pathology of hemoglobin synthesis.

RDW:
An increase in RDW values is characteristic of anemia, accompanied by different sizes of erythrocytes. Often occurs after blood transfusions.

Platelets :
An increase in platelet concentration occurs against the background of inflammation, hemolytic anemia, and conditions after surgical treatment. A number of hemoblastoses are also accompanied by an increase in the number of platelets.
A decrease in the concentration of platelets is considered as a sign of anemia such as B12 deficiency, aplastic, anemia due to a lack of folic acid. A number of infections, physiological conditions (pregnancy, conditions after blood transfusions) are also accompanied by a lack of platelets. Congenital pathological conditions of platelet formation lead to thrombocytopenia.

Leukocytes :
An increase in the concentration of leukocytes indicates the presence of inflammation in the body, the cause of which can be assumed by evaluating the leukocyte formula. The physiological causes of an increase in leukocytes are distinguished. Especially dangerous cause of leukocytosis are hemoblastoses.
A decrease in the concentration of leukocytes, taking into account the characteristics of the leukocyte formula, can be observed in viral diseases, both in the acute phase and without exacerbation, while taking a number of drugs, with diseases of the immune system and hemoblastoses.

Author:

Latynina Yulia Sergeevna

Specialization:

biologist of clinical laboratory diagnostics

Anemia
Prevention

List of sources

1)
“Laboratory hematology”, Lugovskaya S.A. and co-authors

2)
“Blood and urine tests”, Danilova L. A.

3)
“Medical laboratory diagnostics”, Karpishchenko A.I.

4)
“Clinical laboratory diagnostics”, Kishkun A.A.

5)
Clinical laboratory diagnostics. National leadership.

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CBC | Deciphering the clinical blood test “Omicron

Complete blood count is a laboratory study related to the most common analysis. The composition of the blood makes it possible to determine any pathological failures, to diagnose, to choose a treatment.

Basic blood test

Hematological tests – blood tests designed to detect individual pathologies, determine the chemical composition of the fluid. There are narrowly targeted studies on the amount of sugar, leukocytes, hormones, etc.

The most complete picture of the state of health is given by a clinical blood test. The inhabitants often confuse concepts and ask how it differs from the general one. It is the same.

Complete blood count – basic. It allows you to diagnose inflammatory processes in the body, determine the nature of hematopoiesis, identify anemia and other unhealthy conditions.

Venous or capillary blood is used as a material for research. Where is it taken from? Venous is taken from a vein, capillary – from a finger. A transcript of the overall analysis may include from 8 to 30 individual tests. This includes independent research.

When and why to take a general analysis?

Hematology tests are used to assess general health, so they can confirm a situation of normality in relation to reference ranges or detect the presence of any significant changes from a clinical point of view.

The doctor prescribes a general blood test:

As a routine examination of healthy people.
When a patient exhibits signs and symptoms that may be associated with various conditions (eg, anemia, recurrent infections, inflammation, clotting disorders, etc.), diagnostic suspicion should be established and an accurate clinical picture should be determined.
For periodic monitoring of the course of the disease and evaluation of the effectiveness of treatment used after diagnosis.

Testing is mandatory for everyone who seeks medical help. Including – during preventive examinations, medical examinations, registration for pregnancy and in other cases.

How to prepare?

Be prepared for any laboratory test. It is best to do a blood test on an empty stomach, do not eat 8 hours before the test, also exclude fats from the diet. To obtain reliable results, it is necessary to refrain from drinking alcohol on the eve and before the study. If possible, avoid physical exertion and emotional stress.

It is recommended not to take drugs two weeks before the test. However, if we are talking about substances that support life and health, without which the patient cannot do, this is discussed in advance with the attending physician. In this case, the results of the study will be adjusted.

Immediately before the analysis, in the morning, do not smoke, drink tea or coffee. Water is allowed – no more than half a liter.

In general, passing a general analysis does not require special training, since it will be informative even without it. Other examinations require special preparation.

Basic parameters of the general analysis and their decoding

When a clinical blood test is performed, the decoding includes from 8 to 30 parameters. The most important are the determination of hemoglobin, leukocytes, erythrocytes, platelets, ESR and, if necessary, hematocrit, coagulation parameters.