As a part of your regular physical your provider will often request blood
work before your visit. One of the most common tests requested is a CBC.
So, why is this test so common and important? A
complete blood count (CBC) is a blood test used to evaluate your overall health and detect
a wide range of conditions that affect the blood, such as anemia, infection,
inflammation, bleeding disorders or cancers.
The Complete Blood Count (CBC) is looking at:
White Blood Cells (WBCs) – detect and fight infections- a high level indicates inflammation
or infection, low levels may indicate that you are at risk for infections.
Red Blood Cells (RBC) – tells the practitioner how red blood cells you have. Primary
role is to carry oxygen and carbon dioxide.
Hemoglobin Concentration (HGB)- the oxygen-carrying protein in red blood cells that holds the oxygen
and carbon dioxide. Measuring this gives a picture of the blood ability
to carry oxygen. Low hemoglobin is an indicator of anemia. Hemoglobin
increases with altitude adaption.
Hematocrit Value, the how much of your blood is comprised of red blood cells and plasma.
Low levels can indicate low iron, high levels can indicate dehydration
or other conditions.
Indices, values which measure hemoglobin, hematocrit and platelet components found in blood.
MCV, or Mean Cell Volume, measures the average size of the RBC.
MCH, or Mean Cell Hemoglobin, measures the average quantity of hemoglobin
found in a single RBC. Hemoglobin is the protein that carries oxygen to
the tissue.
MCHC, or Mean Cell Hemoglobin Concentration, reflects the average volume or size
of hemoglobin in the RBC.
RDW, or Red Cell distribution, measures the volume of RBC.
MPV, or Mean Platelet Volume, measures the average size of platelets in your blood.
Platelet Count, One of the smallest type of cell, used to stop bleeding. When you are
injured these cells rush to the injury site and help with clotting. Platelet
counts are done if you are prone to bruising and before surgery. Your
platelets change with bleeding disorders, heart disease, diabetes, inflammatory
disorders and anemia.
Differential Blood Count is made up of five different types of white cells. White blood cells (leukocytes)
are part of your immune system, a network of cells, tissues and organs
that work together to protect you from infection. They include:
-
Neutrophils -are the most common type of white blood cell. These cells travel to the
site of an infection and release enzymes to fight off invading viruses
or bacteria.
-
Lymphocytes- There are two main types of lymphocytes: B cells and T cells. B cells
fight off invading viruses, bacteria, or toxins. T cells target and destroy
the body's own cells that have been infected by viruses or cancer cells.
-
Monocytes- remove foreign material, remove dead cells, and boost the body's immune response.
-
Eosinophils- fight infection, inflammation, and allergic reactions. They also defend
the body against parasites and bacteria.
-
Basophils- release enzymes to help control allergic reactions and asthma attacks.
Abnormal increases or decreases in your complete blood count may indicate
that you have an underlying medical condition that calls for further evaluation.
These results can vary by age, gender and how high above sea level you
live. If you have question, follow up with your medical provider.
Wellness offers the Campbell County, Wyoming community daily blood draws every
Monday-Thursday, from 6 am-12 pm, and Friday, from 6-11 am, at 1901 Energy
Ct., Suite 125—located behind Wendy's in Gillette, Wyoming.
For Wright residents, these screenings are also available at the
Wright Clinic, 500 Latigo Drive, Monday-Friday from 8-11 am. No appointment required! Use the
My Health Home patient portal and get access to most test results in less than 48 hours.
For more information about the blood tests and health screenings available at
Wellness, call 307.688.8051 or visit
www.cchwyo.org/screen.
Have Questions?
Sara Olsen, MS, CHES, works at CCH
Wellness as a Health Coach in Gillette, Wyoming. Campbell County Health's Wellness
works to reduce health risks and promote overall wellness among employee
groups and individuals in Campbell County, Wyoming and beyond. To learn
more about Wellness, please visit
www.cchwyo.org/Wellness or call 307.688.8051.