CBC with Differential

Evaluates red and white blood cells to detect infections, anemia, and inflammation.

Performing LabsQuest Diagnostics, Access Medical Laboratories

Specimen TypeBlood

Collection LocationAt Home or Lab Visit

Fasting RequiredNo

About CBC with Differential

The Complete Blood Count (with Differential) is one of the most commonly ordered lab tests and offers a broad overview of your blood and immune system health. It analyzes your red blood cells (RBCs), white blood cells (WBCs), and platelets, providing essential insight into conditions like anemia, infections, inflammation, and blood clotting disorders. Key red blood cell markers such as hemoglobin, hematocrit, and MCV help assess oxygen-carrying capacity and detect nutrient deficiencies or chronic disease. Meanwhile, RDW, MCH, and MCHC offer deeper insight into red cell quality and function.

The differential portion of the test breaks down your white blood cells into five types—neutrophils, lymphocytes, monocytes, eosinophils, and basophils—each offering clues about your body’s immune activity. Elevated or suppressed counts can signal bacterial or viral infections, allergic responses, autoimmune activity, or even early signs of blood cancers. Platelet count rounds out the panel by evaluating your blood’s ability to form clots, which is critical for healing and preventing excessive bleeding. Altogether, this test acts like a vital sign for your internal health—useful for both routine screening and investigating a wide range of symptoms.

15 Biomarkers Included

RBC Count

The number of red blood cells in a test sample. An abnormal level can be a result of anemia or clotting disorders.

Hemoglobin

A protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen and signals anemia when levels are low.

Hematocrit

Proportion of blood made up of red blood cells, reflecting oxygen-carrying capacity and blood thickness.

Mean Corpuscular Volume

A measure of red blood cell size that helps identify causes of anemia and signals broader health risks.

MCH

The average amount of hemoglobin inside your red blood cells, which is essential for carrying oxygen throughout the body.

MCHC

The average concentration of hemoglobin in your red blood cells, which is crucial for carrying oxygen and other bodily functions.

RDW

A measure of the variation in size of red blood cells, which can impact their ability to deliver oxygen.

WBC Count

The frontline defenders of your immune system, helping your body fight off harmful substances and infections.

Neutrophil Count

A type of white blood cell that plays a critical role in the body's defense against infection.

Lymphocyte Count

A type of white blood cell that destroys cancer cells, produces antibodies, and directly attacks abnormal cells.

Basophil Count

A rare type of white blood cell that plays a critical role in immune surveillance and allergic reactions.

Monocyte Count

A type of white blood cell that removes damaged tissues, destroys cancer cells, and defends against foreign substances.

Eosinophil Count

A type of white blood cell that defends your body against parasites and allergies, but also cause of organ damage in high numbers.

MPV

The average size of platelets in the blood and helps assess platelet function and diagnose conditions related to blood clotting and bone marrow health.

Platelet Count

Small blood cells that help the body to stop bleeding by forming blood clots when necessary.