What happens if the CBC Blood Test is abnormal?

The Complete Blood Count Test is usually considered a routine checkup. It is usually prescribed by the doctor. The test identifies several key biomarkers. These include the RBC count, Hemoglobin level, and Hematocrit, for finding out the RBC percentage in the blood. White Blood Cell biomarkers are also evaluated in the CBC blood test, including the total WBC count and the differential WBC count. 

These biomarkers are categorized relative to standard parameters, confirming whether the report is normal, above normal, or below normal. Abnormal results are actually common and these may or may not indicate a cause for concern. However, in certain situations, the overall abnormalities might indicate a serious underlying health condition that must be addressed.  

Brief Idea on CBC Test Basics 

Here is a brief explanation of the key biomarkers. The doctor evaluates these biomarkers in the context of symptoms, medical history, and other test results to diagnose possible underlying health conditions. However, it is important to note that abnormal results in the blood test alone do not confirm the presence of a disease. To start with, you should inquire about the CBC test charges from a trusted healthcare provider and proceed with the process. 

Red Blood Cell Biomarkers: 

• RBC Count: Total number of red blood cells counted.

• The Hemoglobin level: Oxygen-carrying protein in the blood 

• The Hematocrit: Percentage of RBCs in the blood  

• Mean Corpuscular Volume: Size of the RBCs counted

• Level of MCH/MCHC: Hb content in RBCs

• Count of RDW: Red Cell Distribution Width 

White Blood Cell Biomarkers: 

• The total WBC Count: Total number of white blood cells usually counted

• Note Differential WBC count: Different types of WBCs, such as lymphocytes and monocytes 

Blood Platelet Biomarkers: 

• Platelet Count: Total amount of blood-clotting cells 

• Mean Platelet Volume: Platelet size and activity

What Happens When RBC Biomarkers Are Abnormal?

Common abnormalities in the RBC biomarkers include low RBC, Hemoglobin, or Hematocrit. The diagnoses vary depending on the circumstances. Here are a few possible inferences that can be derived. 

1. A low RBC count may indicate anemia, iron deficiency, or internal bleeding.

2. A few chronic diseases may result in low RBC count. 

3. High RBC counts may indicate lung diseases. 

4. A common cause of high RBC count is dehydration. 

5. Rare bone marrow diseases can also lead to high RBC counts. 

What Happens when the WBC Biomarkers Are Abnormal?

Leukocytosis refers to the condition in which the blood exhibits high WBC counts. Also, the test may indicate that you have Leukopenia, which means the WBC number is below normal. Check out the following key conclusions that can be derived from abnormal WBC counts in the blood. 

1. An infection in the body leads to higher WBC counts

2. High WBC may also indicate inflammation

3. Although less common, blood cancers like Leukemia can result in high WBCs

4. Stress levels can also affect the WBC counts 

5. Autoimmune diseases can also result in abnormal WBC counts

6. Nutritional deficiencies can be a key reason for abnormal WBC counts

7. Certain medications can also affect the WBC count

What Happens When Platelet Count is Abnormal?

The medical term for low platelet count is Thrombocytopenia. On the other hand, a high platelet count is termed as Thrombocytosis. If you see these terms on your blood test report, don’t switch into panic mode! These are basic medical terms that do not necessarily indicate that you have a disease. 

Here are the key references that might be drawn when the platelet count is abnormal. 

• Several reasons may lead to a high platelet level, including infection and inflammation.

• Rare bone marrow disorders can result in high platelet counts

• Viral infections can lead to a low platelet count

• Low count may indicate autoimmune disorders

• Certain side effects can affect the platelet count

What Are the Standard Procedures for Abnormal CBC Test Results?

If abnormal values are found in your CBC blood test, the doctor will review your medical history to identify possible underlying conditions. Lifestyle factors such as smoking, alcohol use, stress, poor sleep, and diet are also assessed for their impact on the results.

Based on this evaluation, additional or repeat tests may be recommended to determine the exact cause. Common follow-up tests include iron studies, vitamin B12 levels, and peripheral smears, while specialized tests may be advised for specific conditions, such as suspected infections. 

Conclusion

The CBC blood test is a routine procedure, and the blood sample collection only takes a minute or so. However, if you are selecting a home blood test, you need to make sure that you can trust the phlebotomist to know what he/she is doing. Also, you should categorically check whether the blood is tested at a reputable facility that can guarantee accurate reports.