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.
