Blood count

A count made with a microscope and special counting chamber of the number of red and white blood cells in a cubic millimeter of whole blood. Normally, there are approximately 5 million red blood cells/mm3 and 150,000-400,000 platelets/mm3.


Test to count the number and types of different blood cells in a sample of blood, in order to give an indication of the condition of the person’s blood as a whole.


Enumeration of red blood cells (erythrocytes), white blood cells (leukocytes), and sometimes platelets found in an accurately diluted 1-cubic-millimeter sample of blood. Erythrocytes normally number 4.5 million (women) to 5 million (men), leukocytes 5,000 to 10,000, and platelets 150,000 to 450,000. Changes from the normal numbers usually indicate disease and are used as an aid to diagnosis.


A common blood test that provides information on the number and types of cells in the blood; also known as complete blood cell count or CBC. The term “count” refers to the numerical counting of each blood cell type. To do the test, a small quantity of blood is drawn from a vein into a syringe through a needle. Then the number of red blood cells, the number and kind of white blood cells, and the number of platelets in a given volume of the blood are determined. The test also provides data on the total amount of hemoglobin (the oxygen carrying pigment) in the blood and hematocrit (the fraction of the blood composed of red blood cells).


The number of each of the cellular components per litre of blood. It may be calculated using a microscope or by an automated process.


The number of red cells and leukocytes per microliter (μl) of whole blood. Normally, the number of erythrocytes in men averages 5 million/μl; in women, 4.5 million/ μl. Prolonged exposure to high altitude increases the number. Leukocytes average 5000 to 10,000/μl. Platelets range from 140,000 to 400,000/μl. Hemoglobin (12 to 18 g/100 ml) and hematocrit (38% to 48%) are determined from samples of whole blood.


Regular blood counts are essential for radiation workers as a proactive measure in promptly identifying potential radiation-related harm. It is important to note, however, that blood counts should not be considered a replacement for film badges and other monitoring devices, which play a distinct role in tracking and assessing radiation exposure.


A comprehensive test, commonly known as a full blood count, is conducted to determine the concentration of hemoglobin as well as the quantities of red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets per cubic millimeter of blood. The test also involves assessing the distribution of different types of white blood cells and observing the size and shape of both red and white blood cells.


A blood count, which stands as the most frequently conducted blood test, holds significant value in diagnosing anemia and confirming the immune response of blood cells to an infection. Furthermore, it serves as a diagnostic tool for identifying conditions like leukemia and thrombocytopenia, characterized by unusually low levels of platelets.


Typically, a blood count necessitates approximately 1 to 2 milliliters of blood, and the procedure is commonly carried out using an automated analyzer.


 


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