What does a Complete Blood Count (CBC) primarily evaluate?

A Complete Blood Count (CBC) primarily evaluates the levels and characteristics of various components in the blood, including red blood cells, white blood cells, and hemoglobin. Specifically, the CBC measures the number of each type of blood cell in a given volume of blood, assesses hemoglobin concentration, and may include additional parameters such as hematocrit and platelet counts.

This information is crucial for diagnosing a variety of conditions. For example, elevated or decreased red blood cell counts can indicate anemia or polycythemia, while variations in white blood cell counts can suggest the presence of infections, inflammation, or hematological disorders. Thus, the CBC provides a comprehensive picture of the patient's hematological health.

Understanding the composition and concentration of these blood components helps healthcare professionals in managing and diagnosing conditions related to both the blood and overall health.