A general blood test is a simple and informative laboratory examination, according to the results of which you can obtain the necessary information for the diagnosis of many diseases, as well as assess their severity and trace the dynamics against the background of the treatment.
The UAC includes the following indicators:
- hemoglobin
- erythrocytes
- leukocytes and leukocyte formula (eosinophils, basophils, segmented and stab neutrophils, monocytes and lymphocytes)
- erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR)
- platelets
- color index and hematocrit
- highly specific indicators
The decision of how extensive to prescribe a blood test is made by the attending physician, based on the diagnostic goals and existing diseases.
Abbreviations in the analysis printout
Very often, the printout of the results of the CBC is presented in the form of abbreviations in English. Deciphering abbreviations of a general blood test from English into Russian will help an ordinary user navigate the indicators and adequately assess the result of laboratory analysis.
Here is what is included in the CBC (abbreviated in English):
- MCV (HCT / RBC)
- MCH (HGB / RBC)
- MCHC (HGB / HCT)
- LYM / Lymph (%, #)
- MXD (%, #)
- NEUT (NEU -%, #)
- MON (%, #)
- EO (%, #)
- BA (%, #)
- IMM (%, #)
- ATL (%, #)
- GR (%, #)
- RDW (SD, CV)
- P-LCR
CBC printout
The use of such abbreviations in the UAC is convenient and practical: it does not take up much space in the printout of the analysis and complies with international standards for the designation of blood parameters. Hematologists and therapists can decipher them without much difficulty, and for narrow-profile doctors and patients, a memo designation of each indicator is useful.
Explanation of abbreviations
WBC
Decoding WBC in a general blood test - white blood cells, which in English means white blood cells. So in a blood test, leukocytes are indicated, which under a microscope look exactly in the form of white cells. The unit of measurement is 10 9 / l.
- (table)
RBC
Decoding RBC in a blood test - red blood cells (red blood cells). In laboratory analysis, erythrocytes are so designated. Measurement unit - 10 12 / l
- (table)
HGB
HGB is an abbreviated version of the English word Hemoglobin... So in the printout of the blood test, hemoglobin is indicated. The unit of measurement is g / l (g / l), g / dl (g / dl).
HCT
HCT - stands for Hematocrit (hematocrit).
PLT
PLT means Platelets (platelets). So platelets are encrypted in the printout of the clinical blood test.
MCV
MCV is short for Mean Corpuscular Volume, which means the average volume of red blood cells. Measured in microns 3 or femtoliters (fl).
As can be seen from the table, the MCV rate in the general blood test does not differ much for adults and all ages of children, with the exception of newborns. Their erythrocyte volume is much larger, which is associated with a high content of fetal hemoglobin (HbF) in their structure.
The name of the red blood cells depending on the size:
- Norm - normocyte
- More than normal - macrocyte
- Less than normal - microcyte
MCH
The abbreviation MCH means - mean corpuscular hemoglobin... Translated as the average amount of hemoglobin in the erythrocyte. Measured in picograms (pg).
MCH is analogous, only not in relative numbers, but in picograms.
MCHC
MCHC - mean corpuscular hemoglobin concetration... This is the average concentration of hemoglobin in erythrocytes. The difference between this indicator and total hemoglobin in a blood test is that the MCHC takes into account the volume of red blood cells only, and the total hemoglobin level is determined based on the volume of all blood (cells + plasma).
As can be seen from the table, the MCHC rate in the analysis does not change much with age.
MPV
MPV is short for mean platelet volume. It stands for - the average volume of platelets. Platelets are in the bloodstream for a short time and decrease in size as they "mature", therefore the determination of their volume (MPV) helps to determine the degree of maturity of platelets in the blood. The unit of measure for MPV is femtoliter (fl), which is µm 2.
The MPV norm is when the volume of 83-90% of platelets corresponds to the age norm indicated in the table and only 10-17% of large and small (immature and old).
PDW
Deciphering PDW in a blood test - platelet distribution width. Contraction refers to the relative width of the platelet volume distribution.
The PDW rate is 10-17%. This figure means what percentage of the total platelet count differs in volume from the mean (MPV).
PCT
PCT - full name in English platelet crit. Translated as thrombocrit. The indicator means how much platelets occupy in relation to the volume of whole blood.
The PCT rate in the tests in children and adults is 0.15-0.4%.
LYM
LYM or Lymph in UAC stands for - lymphocyte.So in the blood test, lymphocytes are abbreviated. The printout can contain 2 indicators:
- LYM% (LY%) - the relative content of lymphocytes
- LYM # (LY #) - absolute lymphocyte count
MXD (MID)
The abbreviation MXD stands for mixed. Indicator of a mixture of a variety of leukocytes: monocytes, basophils and eosinophils. The results of the general analysis can be in 2 versions:
- MXD% (MID%) - relative content of cells
- MXD # (MID #) - absolute cell count
MXD norm: relative to all leukocytes - 5-10%, in absolute figures - 0.25-0.9 * 10 9 / l.
NEUT
NEUT is short for neutrophils. This indicator in the general analysis means blood neutrophils. Determined in the analysis in 2 options:
- NEUT% (NEU%) - the relative content of neutrophils
- NEUT # (NEU #) - absolute content of neutrophils
MON
MON is short for Monocyte. So in the UAC monocytes are indicated, the indicator of which in the printout of the analysis can be of 2 types:
- MON% (MO%) - the relative number of monocytes
- MON # (MO #) - absolute number of monocytes
EO
EO can be deciphered from a general blood test as Eosinophils, which means eosinophils from English. The results of a clinical analysis can contain 2 of its indicators:
- EO% - the relative content of eosinophils
- EO # - absolute content of eosinophils
BA
BA - Basophils (basophils)
- BA% - the relative content of basophils
- BA # - absolute content of basophils
IMM
The abbreviation IMM stands for immature granulocytes.
- IMM% - relative content of immature granulocytes
- IMM # \u200b\u200b- absolute content of immature granulocytes
ATL
ATL stands for atypical lymphocytes.
- ATL% - the relative content of atypical lymphocytes
- ATL # - absolute content of atypical lymphocytes
GR
GR is the number of granulocytes in the blood. Granulocytes include: basophils, eosinophils, and neutrophils.
- GR% is the relative content of granulocytes. The norm in adults is 50-80%
- GR # is the absolute content of granulocytes. The norm in adults is 2.2-8.8 * 10 9 / l
HCT / RBC
The HCT / RBC ratio means the average volume of red blood cells. Same as MCV (see above)
HGB / RBC
HGB / RBC - this indicator determines the average hemoglobin content in the erythrocyte. Same as MCH (see above).
HGB / HCT
HGB / HCT is the average concentration of hemoglobin in erythrocytes. Same as MCHC (see above)
RDW
RDW - erythrocyte distribution width in%. Shows what percentage of erythrocytes differ from the norm (7-8 microns). The more microcytes in the blood (size<7 мкм) и макроцитов (размер >8 μm), the higher the RDW.
- RDW rate in adults - 11.5-14.5%
- The norm in newborns (up to 1 month) - 14.9-18.7%
In children over 1 month old, the RDW rate is practically the same as in adults. In newborns, the indicator is much higher, because in their blood, fetal (fetal) hemoglobin is still present in large quantities, which affects the size of erythrocytes.
An excess of RDW above the indicated values \u200b\u200bis erythrocytic anisocytosis.
RDW-SD
RDW-SD is a measure indicating the size gap between the smallest microcyte and the largest macrocyte.
RDW-CV
RDW-CV - percentage distribution of erythrocytes by size:% microcytes,% normocytes and% macrocytes.
P-LCR
P-LCR - large platelet ratio
ESR
ESR stands for erythrocyte sedimentation rate, which is translated from English as erythrocyte sedimentation rate. The Russian abbreviation for this value is ESR (in old forms, it may be designated ROE).
The presence of a transcript of a general blood test from English transcription into Russian will be useful not only for the patient, but also for doctors of various profiles, because in everyday practice, it is extremely rare to deal with all the variety of possible UAC indicators.
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Table of normal indicators of a general blood test |
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|
Analysis indicator |
Norm |
|
Hemoglobin |
Men: 130-170 g / l |
|
Women: 120-150 g / l |
|
|
Erythrocyte count |
Men: 4.0-5.0 · 10 12 / l |
|
Women: 3.5-4.7 10 12 / l |
|
|
Leukocyte count |
Within 4.0-9.0x10 9 / l |
|
Hematocrit (ratio of plasma volume and blood cell elements) |
Men: 42-50% |
|
Women: 38-47% |
|
|
Average erythrocyte volume |
Within 86-98 μm 3 |
|
Leukocyte formula |
Neutrophils: Segmented forms 47-72% Stab forms 1 - 6% Lymphocytes: 19-37% Monocytes: 3-11% Eosinophils: 0.5-5% Basophils: 0-1% |
|
Platelet count |
Within 180-320 · 10 9 / l |
|
Erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) |
Men: 3 - 10 mm / h |
|
Women: 5 - 15 mm / h |
|
Hemoglobin (Hb) Is a protein containing an iron atom that is capable of attaching and carrying oxygen. Hemoglobin is found in red blood cells. The amount of hemoglobin is measured in grams / liter (g / l). Determining the amount of hemoglobin is very important, since with a decrease in its level, the tissues and organs of the whole body experience a lack of oxygen.
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The norm of hemoglobin in children and adults |
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Measurement units - g / l |
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Up to 2 weeks |
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from 2 to 4.3 weeks |
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from 4.3 to 8.6 weeks |
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from 8.6 weeks to 4 months |
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at 4 to 6 months |
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from 6 to 9 months |
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from 9 to 1 year |
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from 1 to 5 years |
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from 5 to 10 years |
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from 10 to 12 years old |
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from 12 to 15 years old |
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from 15 to 18 years old |
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from 18 to 45 years old |
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from 45 to 65 years old |
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after 65 years |
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The reasons for the increase in hemoglobin
Dehydration (decreased fluid intake, profuse sweating, impaired renal function, diabetes, diabetes insipidus, profuse vomiting or diarrhea, use of diuretics)
Congenital heart or lung defects
Pulmonary or heart failure
Kidney disease (renal artery stenosis, benign kidney tumors)
Diseases of the hematopoietic organs ( erythremia)
Low hemoglobin - causes
Anemia
Leukemia
Congenital blood diseases (sickle cell anemia, thalassemia)
Lack of iron
Lack of vitamins
Exhaustion of the body
Blood loss
Erythrocyte count
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ErythrocytesAre small red blood cells. These are the most abundant blood cells. Their main function is to carry oxygen and deliver it to organs and tissues. Erythrocytes are presented in the form of biconcave discs. Inside the erythrocyte there is a large amount of hemoglobin - the main volume of the red disk is occupied by it. |
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Reasons for a decrease in the level of red blood cells A decrease in the number of red blood cells is called anemia. There are many reasons for the development of this condition, and they are not always associated with the hematopoietic system. Errors in nutrition (food poor in vitamins and protein) Blood loss Leukemia (diseases of the hematopoietic system) Hereditary fermentopathies (defects in enzymes that are involved in hematopoiesis) Hemolysis (death of blood cells as a result of exposure to toxic substances and autoimmune damage) |
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The reasons for the increase in the number of red blood cells Dehydration of the body (vomiting, diarrhea, profuse sweating, decreased fluid intake) Erythremia (diseases of the hematopoietic system) Diseases of the cardiovascular or pulmonary system that lead to respiratory and heart failure Renal artery stenosis |
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The blood is part of a large system that very clearly reflects the body's response to various pathological processes. A general or clinical blood test is a basic analysis that is performed in any diagnostic search.
It is called general because the changes that can be detected are not a sign of a specific disease, but combinations of disorders, quantitative indicators of the analyzed parameters give the doctor a large share of information.
It allows you to confirm or deny the preliminary diagnosis established during the survey and examination. Sometimes for a complete understanding of the process, a single analysis is not sufficient and it is necessary to observe changes in indicators over time.
Decoding a general blood test in adults
The norms of a general blood test in adults (taking into account age) are given below in and (leukocyte formula). The reasons for the deviations of the analysis results are also indicated.
Now let's consider the indicators determined by the general blood test.
Hemoglobin
A protein that is found in red blood cells. Its main function is to provide gas exchange. When blood passes through the lungs, hemoglobin adds oxygen and gives off carbon dioxide. In the tissues of organs, a reverse exchange takes place: the release of oxygen to the tissues in exchange for carbon dioxide molecules, which are then released through the respiratory tract.
Oxyhemoglobin, enriched with oxygen, is found in arterial blood. He determines its bright red color. The erythrocytes of the venous blood contain reduced hemoglobin, which has given up oxygen, which makes the venous blood dark cherry.
- The minimum amount of hemoglobin compatible with life is 10 g / l.
Hematocrit
Shows how much red blood cells occupy in the analyzed blood. Depends on the total number of platelets and their size. Expressed as a percentage of the total volume taken as 100%.
It serves as a guide for anemia, an increase in the number of red blood cells, as well as conditions that lead to thickening or dilution of blood.
Erythrocyte count
Red blood cells are the most abundant blood cells that contain hemoglobin. This indicator is one of the most important in the clinical analysis of blood.
Color indicator
Shows the degree of filling of erythrocytes with hemoglobin. In the normal state of the body, it is a stable indicator. An increase in this indicator is associated with an increase in the size of erythrocytes.
- The decrease in the value of the color indicator is associated with both a decrease in the volume of erythrocytes and a decrease in their total number.
Platelet count
Platelets are not whole cells, but lamellar fragments of large bone marrow cells - megakaryocytes. Their main function is blood coagulation. Platelet count can be influenced by seasonal and diurnal rhythms.
Mean Platelet Volume (MPV)
As it matures, the size of the platelet plate changes, which leads to a change in the activity of this blood element, a decrease in granules with active substances, and a lesser tendency to adhesion (sticking together).
- Thus, younger platelets are larger than older elements and, accordingly, more active.
Leukocyte count
White blood cells are produced in the bone marrow and lymph nodes and are part of the immune system. Their main function is to protect the body. Due to their diversity, leukocytes are important components of immune responses.
Fluctuations in the number of leukocytes within the normal range can be during physical activity, after eating, during stress, as well as at the end of the day, under the influence of cold, sun.
When performing a clinical blood test, both the total number of leukocytes and the percentage of each type to the total number of these blood elements are determined - the leukocyte formula.
Leukocyte formula - the percentage of leukocytes of each type:
- Neutrophils are divided into stab and segmented. The function of neutrophils is to protect the body from infectious agents by absorbing and digesting foreign particles, that is, phagocytosis. An increase in the level of neutrophils is often combined with an increase in the total number of leukocytes.
- Eosinophils help to limit the severity of an allergic reaction in body tissues by destroying excess histamine. The second important function of eosinophils is the secretion of substances that contribute to the destruction of worm larvae. They can carry out phagocytosis.
- Basophils contain granules with histamine, which is released in case of immediate allergic reactions. Basophils also regulate the amount of heparin and the permeability of the walls of blood vessels, participate in delayed-type reactions, as well as in inflammatory processes.
- Monocytes form a group of cells with phagocytosis function. Monocytic macrophages remove dying cells, antigen-antibody complexes, destroyed proteins, participate in the exchange of iron and fats, and the immune response.
- Lymphocytes are the main cells of the immune system, which carry out two types of protection: by producing special proteins - antibodies that bind to foreign antigens, as well as T-lymphocytes - killers, they directly destroy viruses and cells unnecessary to the body.
ESR in a general blood test
This is the rate at which the blood in the test tube is divided into two parts: cells and plasma. In this case, erythrocytes stick together and settle in the form of characteristic "coin columns".
ESR depends on the severity and size of red blood cells, as well as on the viscosity of the blood and the protein saturation of the plasma. All protein molecules weaken the charge on the surface of red blood cells, which allows them to repel each other and not stick together.
An increase in ESR is a reliable sign inflammatory process, especially when combined with other changes in blood composition that indicate inflammation. The observation of this indicator in dynamics indicates a subsiding of the infectious process: at first, the ESR is high, and with recovery it gradually decreases.
- In autoimmune diseases, the ESR value indicates a period of exacerbation or remission.
Features in pregnant women
During pregnancy, especially in the second half, there is an increase in the volume of circulating blood, which leads to a relative decrease in the number of erythrocytes, a decrease in hematocrit, and a decrease in platelets.
There is an increase in the number of leukocytes and an increase in ESR, which can be especially pronounced immediately before childbirth.
The rate and decoding (table) of the general blood test
Table 1.
|
Indicator and its norm |
Above normal |
Below normal |
|
Hemoglobin w 112-150 g / l m 126-170 g / l |
- primary and secondary erythrocytosis;
Erythremia; Dehydration; Long stay at height; Smoking. |
- for all types of anemias: after blood loss, in violation of hematopoiesis and blood destruction;
With overhydration (an increase in the volume of fluid in the body). |
|
Hematocrit f 33-44% m 38-49% |
- erythremia; Hypoxia; Kidney disease (tumors, polycystic, hydronephrosis); Peritonitis; Burn disease; Dehydration. |
- anemia; 2 half of pregnancy; Hyperproteinemia (increased amount of protein in the blood); Hyperhydration. |
|
Erythrocyte count w 3.5 - 5 x10 12 / l m 4.2 - 5.6 x10 12 / l |
- erythremia; Hypoxia: lung disease, heart defects, obesity, stay at high altitude, irregular hemoglobin, physical activity. Kidney cancer, hydronephrosis and polycystic kidney disease; Pheochromocytoma, Cushing's sm, an increase in the amount of aldosterone .; Dehydration; Emotional stress; Drinking alcohol, smoking; The newborns are normal. |
- anemia; Pregnancy; Hyperproteinemia; Hyperhydration. |
|
Color indicator 0,86 – 1,05 |
- anemia with a deficiency of vitamin B12, folic acid;
After bleeding; Cirrhosis of the liver; Malignant neoplasms (stomach cancer with metastases); Decreased thyroid function; Helminthic invasions; Taking some drugs: cytostatics, anticonvulsants, contraceptives. |
- an indicator of true iron deficiency and iron deficiency anemia;
Impaired absorption of iron by hematopoietic cells of the bone marrow; For lead poisoning. |
|
Platelet count 180-320 x10 9 / l |
-pregnancy; During menstrual bleeding; - s-m Fanconi, Viskota-Aldrich; - viral hepatitis, chronic hepatitis; Malignant tumors with bone marrow metastases; Acute leukemia; Intoxication chemicals and medicines; Anemia with deficiency of B12 and folic acid, iron; DIC syndrome; Systemic lupus erythematosus; - taking medications: chloramphenicol, sulfonamides; In patients on hemodialysis; Diseases of the liver, thyroid gland; Hemolytic disease of the newborn. |
|
|
Average platelet volume (MPV) 3.6 - 9.4 μm 3 |
- thrombocytopenic purpura;
S. Bernard Soulier; - anemia after bleeding (post-hemorrhagic); May-Hegglin anomaly |
- Wiskott-Aldrich syndrome |
|
Leukocyte count 4 - 8.8x10 9 / l |
-2 half of pregnancy, childbirth;
PMS; Acute infections: viral, fungal, bacterial; Acute inflammatory diseases: abscess, appendicitis, burns; Malignant tumors; Leukemia; Injury; Renal failure (uremia); - the use of adrenaline, hormones. |
- suppression of the work of the red brain with aplasia, chemical poisoning, medicinesafter exposure to radiation;
Acute leukemia; Tumor metastases to the bone marrow; Sepsis; Typhus, paratyphoid; Shock; Taking medications: NSAIDs, antibiotics, antiepileptic drugs, sulfonamides, thyreostatics. |
table 2
|
Leukocyte formula |
||
|
Norm |
Above normal |
Below normal |
|
Neutrophils 45-70% |
- acute inflammation of an infectious and bacterial nature (tonsillitis, otitis media, appendicitis, pneumonia, abscesses, meningitis);
Sepsis; Burns; Tissue necrosis: acute infarction, gangrene, tumors with decay; Lead poisoning; - with snake bites; After vaccinations; Uremia, diabetic acidosis; Myeloid leukemia, erythremia; Gout; Bleeding |
-flu; Measles, rubella; Typhus, paratyphoid; Viral hepatitis; - radiation; Taking cytostatics, antidepressants; Acute leukemia; Lack of vitamin B12 and folic acid; - under the influence of benzene, aniline |
|
Eosinophils 1-5% |
- allergic reactions;
Bronchial asthma; Helminthic invasions; Pemphigus; Eczema; Scarlet fever; Blood diseases; Rheumatoid arthritis; Malignant tumors, hemoblastosis. |
- the beginning of an infectious toxic shock;
Purulent infections; Heavy postoperative period; |
|
Basophils 0-1% |
- food, drug allergies;
Chronic ulcerative colitis; Chronic myeloid leukemia, erythremia; With a decrease in thyroid hormones; Lymphogranulomatosis; Taking hormones - estrogens. |
Practically not recorded, can be detected with increased thyroid function, stress. |
|
Monocytes 2-6% |
-active tuberculosis;
Infectious mononucleosis; Subacute endocarditis; Malaria; Syphilis; Leukemia, lymphogranulomatosis; Rheumatoid arthritis, SLE. |
- suppression of hematopoiesis in case of intoxication |
|
Lymphocytes 25-35% |
-viral infection;
Whooping cough; Infectious mononucleosis; Viral hepatitis; Cytomegalovirus; Chr. lymphocytic leukemia. |
- with a decrease in the production of all blood cells;
Taking hormones - glucocorticoids Severe viral infections; Malignant tumors; Immunodeficiency states. |
|
ESR w up to 60 years - 12 mm / h after 60 years - 20 mm / h m up to 60 years - 8 mm / h m after 60 years - 15 mm / h |
-menstruation, pregnancy, postpartum period;
Inflammatory diseases; Tumors; Connective tissue diseases; Kidney disease: amyloidosis, glomerulonephritis, uremia; Myocardial infarction; Anemia; Bleeding; - with an increase in cholesterol; Disruption of the thyroid gland; Low blood protein levels; Low fibrinogen levels; Rheumatoid arthritis. |
- erythremia; Severe circulatory failure; Epilepsy; Sickle cell anemia; High levels of protein in the blood; Decreased fibrinogen levels; Viral hepatitis, jaundice; Taking aspirin, calcium chloride. |
Indications for the appointment of a general blood test
- Primary analysis: any diseases of an inflammatory, infectious nature, bleeding, trauma, examination before surgery, childbirth, during the passage of any medical commission.
- Re-analysis: dynamics of the disease, confirmation of recovery.
- The leading role is a general blood test in violation of the functioning of the hematopoietic organs: bone marrow tissue, spleen, liver.
How is a complete blood count performed?
General clinical analysis does not have to be taken on an empty stomach - blood sampling can be carried out at any time. But most often, blood is taken for analysis in the morning. On an empty stomach, it is necessary to come to the laboratory if, simultaneously with this analysis, blood is taken for biochemistry.
In the treatment room, blood is taken from a finger (more often), or from an ulnar vein. The blood is placed in a test tube with an anti-clotting preservative and sent to the laboratory.
The modern laboratory is equipped with automatic analyzers that can simultaneously examine both a large number of samples and issue a conclusion on many indicators at once.
Blood consists of a liquid part - plasma, as well as cells (shaped elements), the concentration of which can vary significantly in various pathological conditions. The decoding of the clinical blood test allows one to judge the possible presence or absence of inflammation, intoxication of the body, dehydration (dehydration), bleeding, oncological diseases, diseases of the hematopoietic system, etc.
What blood tests are taken?
Modern laboratory diagnostics are mainly based on blood tests. The indicators of this main binding substance of the body can tell a lot about the state of human health. The most informative - and therefore most often carried out - are biochemical and general blood tests.
What is a complete blood count?
A general blood test is one of the most important clinical studies that is carried out in most diseases, as well as as part of a preventive examination (clinical examination). This test plays a leading role in the diagnosis of blood diseases.
Important:a general blood test from a finger is taken on an empty stomach in the morning. In order to avoid distortion of the results, food cannot be eaten in 8 hours, and only water can be drunk.
Drinks containing alcohol or tea are not allowed before the blood test, and juices.
Traditionally, blood sampling is carried out from the ring finger, puncturing the skin with a sterile scarifier to a depth of 2-3 mm. The first drop is usually removed with a cotton swab, then blood is drawn to determine the hemoglobin level and erythrocyte sedimentation rate, the next portion is to establish the number of white and red blood cells. Microscopic smears are made using slides.
Laboratory research involves:
- determination of the number of various shaped elements (cells);
- establishment of the basic parameters of blood cells (size, type, etc.);
- measuring the level (concentration) of hemoglobin;
- determination of the leukocyte formula;
- determination of hematocrit.
The main indicators of the UAC
Hematocrit Is the percentage that determines the volumetric ratio of cell mass to plasma. Erythrocyte indices reflect the main characteristics of red blood cells.
Hemoglobin (HGB) - This is a "respiratory pigment" - a compound of iron and protein, which is responsible for transporting oxygen to organs and tissues.
note: a physiological decrease in hemoglobin levels is possible in babies in the first year of life.
A low hemoglobin level indicates the development of anemia (anemia).
Important:anemia often develops against the background of blood loss, impaired formation of red cells or with their accelerated destruction. She may be clinical manifestation a number of pathologies or be an independent disease.
Erythrocytes(RBC) Are highly differentiated cellular elements. They lack nuclei, and the intracellular space is filled with hemoglobin.
The color index of red blood cells reflects the level of respiratory pigment in these red blood cells.
Mean erythrocyte volume (MCV) Is an indicator that is used to diagnose various types of anemias. Also at differential diagnosis types of anemia, an indicator reflecting the average content of hemoglobin in erythrocytes is certainly taken into account.
Distribution of red blood cells by size (RDW) allows you to establish the degree of anisocytosis, i.e. the presence of red cells of different volume.
Reticulocytes called young forms of red cells.
Platelets (PLT) - These are cells formed in the red bone marrow that are responsible for the process of blood clotting. Clotting factors and biologically active substances are present in the granules of these non-nuclear shaped elements, which are released when platelets are activated. These cells can attach to the walls of blood vessels and to each other, forming a clot that "plugs" damage to the vascular walls. The duration of the existence of a platelet in the blood is no more than 1-1.5 weeks. An increase in bleeding develops if the concentration of these cells is less than 50x10 3. Such conditions can pose a serious threat to the patient's life.
note: in the blood test of a pregnant woman, the number of platelets is reduced, which is the norm. Physiological thrombocytopenia is also recorded in women with menstruation. The number of these cells increases with physical activity.
ESR Is the erythrocyte sedimentation rate. In women, this indicator is normally higher than in men, which is explained by regular physiological blood loss. An increase in ESR may indicate the presence of an inflammatory process, the presence of infectious agents in the body, or intoxication.
Leukocytes (WBC) Are white blood cells produced in the lymphatic system and bone marrow. They protect the body by recognizing and neutralizing foreign agents, as well as their own cells that have undergone pathological changes. Leukocytosis (an increase in the number of leukocytes), as a rule, indicates the development of an inflammatory process. Leukocytes in particular include neutrophils (stab and segmented), basophils, eosinophils, monocytes (large white cells) and lymphocytes (elements responsible for acquired).
An increase in the number of eosinophils often speaks of helminthic invasions or the presence of diseases of allergic origin.
Blood test results are prepared in the laboratory within one day.
Normal indicators
Only a doctor can interpret the results, that is, make any conclusions based on the data obtained in the course of a laboratory blood test. However, some conclusions can be drawn by comparing your CBC with the reference (normal) values \u200b\u200bin the tables below.
Important:the blood test values \u200b\u200bof an adult differ from the results of this study in a child.
Table of norms for blood analysis in adults:
Table for decoding a blood test in children (norm):
| Age | Erythrocytes x10 12 |
Hemoglobin | Platelets x10 9 |
Leukocytes x10 9 |
Speed subsidence erythrocytes (ESR), mm / h |
| Newborn | 5,0-5,8-6,0 | 215-180 | 273-309 | 30-12 | 2,5-2,8 |
| 1-12 months | 4,6-4,7 | 178-119 | 280-290 | 10-10,5 | 4-7 |
| 2-3 years | 4,6-4,7 | 117-126 | 280-290 | 10,5-11 | 7-8 |
| 4-5 years old | 4,6-4,7 | 126-130 | 280-290 | 10-11 | 7-8 |
| 6-8 years old | 4,7-4,8 | 127-130 | 280-290 | 8,2-9,7 | 7-8 |
What do the deviations indicate?
Leukocytosis, an increase in the number of white blood cells, may be a cause for concern.
The reason for the increase in the number of leukocytes is such pathologies as:
- bacterial infections accompanied by purulent inflammation;
- any;
- blood diseases (leukemia).
If leukocytosis occurs, then this is the reason for a deep and comprehensive medical examination. If an infectious disease is suspected, an additional blood test for antibodies may be performed.
Important: it should be borne in mind that the number of leukocytes may temporarily increase in the postoperative period, after vaccination, as well as after eating or significant physical exertion.
Leukopenia (a decrease in the number of leukocytes) is often caused by a lack of vitamins, unfavorable environmental conditions, or viral infections... As a rule, it is not a cause for serious concern.
ESR depends on the positive charge of red blood cells, due to which they repel each other. In some pathologies, erythrocytes lose their charge, as a result of which they begin to settle faster.
You should be tested if the indicator is 3-5 times higher than normal values.
The reason for the increase in ESR may be:
- kidney disease - inflammation of the renal pelvis () or glomeruli (glomerulonephritis);
- bacterial (pneumonia);
- foci of purulent inflammation (abscesses and phlegmon);
- (generalized process);
- inflammatory diseases of the pancreas, gallbladder and other organs of the digestive system;
- diseases of rheumatic (autoimmune) origin - rheumatoid arthritis and SLE (systemic lupus erythematosus);
- malignant neoplasms.
Important: to exclude cancer, a special clinical blood test for tumor markers is performed.
Women should not worry if the erythrocyte sedimentation rate increases before the onset of menstruation - this is a physiological norm. The indicator is also increased during pregnancy (from 5 weeks) and returns to normal only by the fourth week after the baby is born.
Thrombocytopenia means a decrease in the number of platelets below 100 × 109 / L.
Possible causes of thrombocytopenia include:
- acute infectious diseases;
- aplastic form of anemia;
- malignant blood diseases (leukemia).
note: special alertness should be exercised when detecting a decrease in the number of platelets in the blood test of pregnant women. One of the causes of the pathology is antiphospholipid syndrome, which often leads to miscarriage.
Thrombocytosis (an increase in the number of these cells) indicates the possible presence of the following pathologies:
- acute inflammation;
- exacerbation of a chronic inflammatory process;
- amyloidosis (violation of protein metabolism);
- malignant tumors.
note : there is no reason to worry if thrombocytosis is recorded in the postoperative period or after significant physical exertion.
A decrease in hemoglobin levels is highly likely indicative of iron deficiency anemia.
Low hemoglobin levels can be caused by:
- hypovitaminosis for vitamin B12, caused by a violation of its assimilation (typical for patients suffering from an atrophic form of gastritis and for the elderly and senile);
- lack of animal products in the diet (vegetarian diet);
- period of pregnancy and lactation;
- regular blood loss (including physiological during menstruation).
Hematocrit is an indicator that reflects how much blood is occupied by erythrocytes. The hematocrit is usually expressed as a percentage: for example, a hematocrit (HCT) of 39% means that 39% of the blood volume is red blood cells. Increased hematocrit occurs with erythrocytosis (an increased number of red blood cells in the blood), as well as with dehydration. A decrease in hematocrit indicates anemia (a decrease in the level of red blood cells in the blood), or an increase in the amount of liquid part of the blood.
The average red blood cell volume allows the doctor to obtain data on the size of the red blood cell. The average erythrocyte volume (MCV) is expressed in femtoliters (fl), or in cubic micrometers (μm3). Erythrocytes with a small average volume are found in microcytic anemia, iron deficiency anemia, etc. Erythrocytes with an increased average volume are found in megaloblastic anemia (anemia that develops when there is a deficiency of vitamin B12 or folic acid in the body).
Platelets are small plates of blood that are involved in the formation of a blood clot and prevent blood loss in the event of vascular damage. An increase in the level of platelets in the blood occurs in some blood diseases, as well as after operations, after removal of the spleen. A decrease in platelet levels occurs in some congenital blood diseases, aplastic anemia (disruption of the bone marrow, which produces blood cells), idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura (destruction of platelets due to increased activity of the immune system), liver cirrhosis, etc.
Lymphocyte is a type of white blood cell that is responsible for the production of immunity and the fight against microbes and viruses. The number of lymphocytes in different analyzes can be presented as an absolute number (how many lymphocytes were found), or as a percentage (what percentage of the total number of leukocytes are lymphocytes). The absolute lymphocyte count is usually designated LYM # or LYM. The percentage of lymphocytes is referred to as LYM% or LY%. An increase in the number of lymphocytes (lymphocytosis) occurs in some infectious diseases (rubella, influenza, toxoplasmosis, infectious mononucleosis, viral hepatitis, etc.), as well as with blood diseases (chronic lymphocytic leukemia, etc.). A decrease in the number of lymphocytes (lymphopenia) occurs in severe chronic diseases, AIDS, renal failure, taking certain drugs that suppress immunity (corticosteroids, etc.).
Granulocytes are white blood cells that contain granules (granular white blood cells). Granulocytes are represented by 3 types of cells: neutrophils, eosinophils and basophils. These cells are involved in the fight against infections, in inflammatory and allergic reactions. The number of granulocytes in various analyzes can be expressed in absolute terms (GRA #) and as a percentage of the total number of leukocytes (GRA%).
Granulocytes are usually elevated when there is inflammation in the body. A decrease in the level of granulocytes occurs in aplastic anemia (loss of the ability of the bone marrow to produce blood cells), after taking certain medications, as well as in systemic lupus erythematosus (connective tissue disease), etc.
Monocytes are leukocytes, which, once in the vessels, soon leave them in the surrounding tissues, where they turn into macrophages (macrophages are cells that absorb and digest bacteria and dead body cells). The number of monocytes in different assays can be expressed in absolute terms (MON #) and as a percentage of the total number of leukocytes (MON%). An increased content of monocytes is found in some infectious diseases (tuberculosis, infectious mononucleosis, syphilis, etc.), rheumatoid arthritis, blood diseases. A decrease in the level of monocytes occurs after severe operations, taking drugs that suppress immunity (corticosteroids, etc.).
The erythrocyte sedimentation rate is an indicator that indirectly reflects the content of proteins in blood plasma. An elevated ESR indicates possible inflammation in the body due to an increased content of inflammatory proteins in the blood. In addition, an increase in ESR occurs in anemia, malignant tumors, etc. A decrease in ESR is rare and indicates an increased content of erythrocytes in the blood (erythrocytosis), or other blood diseases.
It should be noted that some laboratories indicate other standards in the test result, this is due to the presence of several methods for calculating indicators. In such cases, the interpretation of the results of a general blood test is carried out according to the specified norms.
In addition to decoding the blood test, you can also decrypt urine and feces analyzes there.