CBC Test: Purpose, Prepare, Report & Price

Max Lab

Apr 01, 2022

CBC (Complete Blood Count) Test

₹ 350

Keeping a check on your health has become imperative for everyone all over the world. This is especially true in the present-day situation after the COVID-19 pandemic. Understanding bodily functions with the help of laboratory tests can help in diagnosing medical conditions in a timely manner. A CBC test provides details of an individual’s blood cells in a comprehensive manner. The test results help a medical practitioner treat underlying medical issues. Along with this, the onset of certain diseases can be monitored with the help of CBC test results. Mentioned below are details of this blood test:

What is a CBC Test?

A lot of individuals often ask what a CBC test is and why is it done? The primary purpose of getting a CBC test is that it provides a comprehensive report about the functioning of the blood cells, which in turn, helps in diagnosing several medical conditions related to the blood, internal organs, and the autoimmune system. Any abnormalities in the count of the blood cells can be further investigated by a reputed pathology laboratory such as Max Lab to find appropriate solutions based on the report of a CBC test. Mentioned below are components of blood that are measured in a CBC test with details of the normal range:

White Blood Cells - Also known as leukocytes, they fight infectious and foreign bodies. These blood cells are essential for the proper function of an individual’s immune system. In a CBC test report, an increased number of White Blood Cells (WBCs) can indicate the presence of infections, allergies, cancer, and other ailments in an individual’s body. A low level of WBCs in a CBC test is what helps diagnose auto-immune disorders, vitamin deficiencies, lymphoma or bone marrow disease.
Red Blood Cells - The main role of red blood cells or RBCs is to transport oxygen from the lungs to the tissues. Also known as erythrocytes, these blood cells are responsible for carrying carbon dioxide back to the lungs for exhalation. The purpose of a CBC test is to detect an increased number of RBCs that indicate medical conditions related to the lungs, kidneys, and liver. While low numbers of these blood cells might be due to anaemia, internal bleeding, vitamin B12 deficiencies, etc.
Platelets - The function of platelets in the bloodstream is to bind vessels that are damaged or broken. Platelets or thrombocytes are responsible for blood clotting so that the bleeding can be controlled properly. A CBC test done in a timely manner can detect higher platelet count due to surgery, inflammation, infections, cancer etc. This blood test can also present low platelet count because of underlying issues like auto-immune diseases, chronic bleeding, infections, and many more.
Haemoglobin - Present in the red blood cells, it is a protein that transports oxygen from the respiratory system to the issues. People suffering from anaemia, hypothyroidism, chronic kidney disease, and bone marrow diseases tend to have low haemoglobin. While people with lung disease, heart disease, and certain cancers have high haemoglobin.
Haematocrit - The volume percentage of red blood cells in an individual’s body is known as haematocrit or HCT. People with low haematocrit count often are at a higher risk of developing thalassemia, nutrient deficiencies, cancer, autoimmune disorders, bone marrow diseases, etc. On the other hand, high haematocrit can often be a sign of diseases of the heart, lungs, and kidney disease.

How is this test conducted?

A CBC test is conducted by collecting a sample of an individual’s blood. It is recommended to get this test done at a reputed pathology laboratory for accurate results. A CBC test is part of most health packages offered by renowned diagnostic centres such as Max Lab. This is because it helps in monitoring the overall health of an individual. A CBC test is also suggested during pregnancy to monitor the health of the mother and the child. For senior citizens, a full-body check-up with a CBC test, among others, is suggested to analyse pre-existing conditions. In India, a well-priced CBC test can be easily booked online at an accredited pathology laboratory.

How to prepare for a CBC test?

The preparation for a CBC test only involves making an appointment at a reputed diagnostic centre. Individuals who do not have the time to visit a pathology lab can look for home sample collection services. A well-trained technician applies pressure on the upper arm to find a vein for collecting a blood sample. However, the preparation for a CBC test along with others can vary based on the necessary steps advised by a diagnostic lab. Hence, it is best to check the details upon confirmation of your booking. CBC test report’s time will also be provided by the pathology lab, i.e., within the same day of sample collection. In case of any delays, getting in touch with customer support is advised.

In India, the price of a CBC test depends on the diagnostic centre available in a particular area. At Max Lab, we have kept the cost of this blood test quite affordable and that too with a quick turnaround time for CBC test reports.