What the Complete Blood Count (CBC) Test measures
A complete blood count (CBC) looks at the three main types of cells in the blood. Red blood cells carry oxygen: the test measures haemoglobin, the red cell count and the size and haemoglobin content of the cells (MCV, MCH, MCHC and RDW), which helps a doctor not only detect anaemia but also think about its likely cause. White blood cells fight infection: the total count and the differential (neutrophils, lymphocytes, monocytes, eosinophils and basophils) can point towards a bacterial or viral infection, an allergy, or other conditions affecting the bone marrow. Platelets help the blood clot: the platelet count is watched closely in fevers such as dengue, where it can fall over a few days. A CBC is one of the most commonly ordered tests because it is quick and gives a broad first look at overall health. On its own it rarely gives a final diagnosis, but it often tells the doctor what to check next.
Price: the Complete Blood Count (CBC) Test costs ₹256 at Pure Bliss (MRP ₹320), with the sample collected at our Action Area 2, New Town centre or at your home.
Who this test is for
- Fever, especially when dengue, malaria or another infection is suspected
- Tiredness, weakness, breathlessness or pale skin
- Routine health check-ups and pre-operative checks
- Monitoring of conditions or medicines that affect the blood count
How to prepare, the sample, and when to expect the report
Preparation
No fasting is needed and the sample can be given at any time of day. If it is booked together with fasting tests such as blood sugar or lipids, follow the fasting advice for those tests.
Sample
Blood, from a vein in the arm (whole blood in an EDTA tube).
Reporting time
Reported the same day if the sample is given before noon, else by the next day.
Reading the result
Reference ranges differ between laboratories, so your report lists the laboratory’s own range beside each value. A result outside the range does not always mean illness; ask your doctor to explain it.
- Centre or home collection
- NABL-accredited Redcliffe Labs collection centre
- How collection works →