Full Blood Count

Full Blood Count consists of the following tests & screens for diseases such as anemia (low haemoglobin), clotting disorders, leukemia and infections.

  • Haemoglobin
  • RBC (RCC)
  • WCC (TWDC)
  • 5 Part Differential Count
  • Platelet Count
  • PCV – MCH/MCV
  • MCHC
  • Blood Film Comment

Haemoglobin is the red pigment within the blood cell and is responsible for carrying oxygen supply to the tissues. Haemoglobin may be low when there is chronic blood loss e.g. from piles, gastric ulcers, intestinal growths, or from thalassemia, a heriditary condition characterised by red blood cells of shorter lifespan. Low haemoglobin levels should be followed up with your doctor so as to elucidate the cause as they can cause lethargy and giddiness.

Elevated haemoglobin levels may be observed in chronic smokers.

WCC (TWDC) represents the white cell count of our body. This may be elevated in states of infection or blood disorders e.g. leukamia. Marginally low levels may be noted following a clinical infection. The arrangements of the white blood cell ought to be followed up by your family doctor.

Platelets play a vital role in causing bleeding to stop. Peripheral blood film studies reflect the state of the red blood cells when viewed under the microscope.