CBC with Differential and Platelet Count Blood Test

Also Known As

Blood Cell Count, Complete Blood Count with Differential, CBC, or Full Blood Count.

What is the Purpose of a CBC Test?

A CBC blood test is one of the most commonly ordered lab tests and serves as a vital indicator of overall health. This comprehensive test measures various components of your blood to evaluate your well-being. The CBC lab test can help detect early signs of health issues such as fatigue, infections, or anemia. It also helps monitor chronic conditions, assess treatment effectiveness, and support routine health screenings as part of a general health test.

What Does the CBC Blood Test Measure?

The CBC blood test measures the levels and characteristics of blood cells, providing valuable insights into your overall health. Specific components evaluated in CBC labs include:

• Red blood cell count

• White blood cell count

• Platelets

• Hemoglobin

• Hematocrit

• Mean corpuscular volume (MCV)

These metrics help identify a wide range of potential health issues related to oxygen transport, immune response, and blood clotting.

Who Should Take a CBC Lab Test?

Healthcare providers often recommend a CBC with differential as part of annual health exams or when evaluating specific symptoms. The CBC blood test is also used for screening, diagnostic, and monitoring purposes, especially for individuals with a history of blood disorders or chronic conditions that affect overall wellness.

CBC with Differential Test Preparation

No special preparation is needed before taking a CBC with differential and platelet count test. However, your healthcare provider may suggest avoiding certain medications or supplements that could temporarily affect your blood results.

Complete Blood Count Test Results

Normal adult CBC test results fall within these ranges:

• Red blood cells: 4.35 million – 5.65 million cells/mcL (men); 3.92 million – 5.13 million cells/mcL
• Hemoglobin: 13.2 grams – 16.6 grams/dL (men); 11.6 grams – 15 grams/dL
• Hematocrit: 38.3% – 48.6% (men); 35.5% – 44.9% (women)
• White blood cells: 3,400 – 9,600 cells/mcL
• Platelets: 135,000 – 317,000/mcL (men); 157,000 – 371,000/mcL
• MCV: 80 – 100fl

Our complete blood count test reports are easy to read so you can use them to make important healthcare decisions. Results that fall outside the normal ranges may indicate a potential health issue that warrants further testing for conditions such as cancer, infectious disease, heart disease, or anemia and other blood-related concerns.

It’s important to note that dehydration, medications can influence test results, and activity level, among other factors, so you’ll want to consult with a physician about any abnormal results.

Where Can I Get a CBC Test Done Near Me?

CBC testing is easy and convenient with Personalabs. Here’s how it works:

Step 1: Visit our website’s general health and wellness tests section, purchase the test, and download the lab order. (You don’t need a doctor to sign off on the lab order, depending on the state you live in.)

Step 2: Choose the lab closest to you from our 4,000-plus partner facilities and schedule your blood draw.

Step 3: Go to the lab with the blood work order and take the test.

Step 4: Receive your detailed results, typically within 2 to 10 business days, at your secure Personalabs portal.

We’re here to help you find the information and tools to take charge of your health. Start shopping for your lab tests online, or contact our customer service team with any questions.

Frequently Asked Questions About the CBC Blood Test

How long does it take to get CBC blood test results?

Results are typically available within 2 to 10 business days, depending on the testing lab and your location.

Can a CBC blood test detect vitamin deficiencies?

While a CBC cannot directly measure vitamin levels, it can reveal abnormalities—like low red blood cells or hemoglobin—that may suggest deficiencies in iron, vitamin B12, or folate.

Is fasting required before a CBC blood test?

No fasting is required for a CBC blood test. However, if your doctor orders additional tests, such as cholesterol or glucose, fasting might be recommended.

How often should you get a CBC blood test?

Most adults benefit from an annual CBC blood test as part of a routine health exam. Those with chronic conditions or ongoing symptoms may need it more frequently.

Can stress affect CBC blood test results?

Yes. Physical or emotional stress can temporarily elevate white blood cell counts, so it’s important to share recent stress factors with your healthcare provider when reviewing results.

Does a CBC blood test detect cancer?

A CBC blood test cannot diagnose cancer, but it can show abnormalities in blood cell counts that may prompt further testing to rule out or confirm serious conditions.