The complete blood count (CBC) is the most common blood test. It analyzes the three major types of cells in blood: red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. The CBC counts these cells, measures hemoglobin (the oxygen-carrying molecule in red blood cells), estimates the red cells’ volume, and sorts the white blood cells into five subtypes if a CBC with differential is ordered.
This screening test is used to find out about anemia(s), infection(s), inflammation, polycythemia, hemolytic disease and the severity of any blood loss.