What diseases can be detected by a complete blood count (CBC)?
Generally speaking, a routine blood test refers to a complete blood count (CBC). A CBC may detect conditions such as iron deficiency anemia, bacterial infection, viral infection, aplastic anemia, leukemia, and other diseases. If symptoms occur, it is recommended to seek medical attention promptly. Detailed explanations are as follows:
1. Iron Deficiency Anemia
Iron deficiency anemia is one of the most common types of anemia. In routine blood tests, indicators such as red blood cell count, hemoglobin concentration, and mean red blood cell volume can help initially determine the presence of anemia. Further diagnosis of iron deficiency anemia can be confirmed through tests assessing iron metabolism.
2. Bacterial Infection
White blood cells are an important component of the human immune system and can engulf and destroy bacteria. When a bacterial infection occurs in the body, the white blood cell count increases in the routine blood test, especially with an increased proportion of neutrophils.
3. Viral Infection
Lymphocytes are a crucial part of the immune system and help fight viral infections. During a viral infection, the white blood cell count may slightly decrease in a routine blood test, although the proportion of lymphocytes might increase.
4. Aplastic Anemia
Aplastic anemia refers to bone marrow failure caused by chemical toxins, viral infections, or other factors. Patients may experience symptoms such as gastrointestinal bleeding, hematuria (blood in urine), and retinal hemorrhage. In a routine blood test, patients with aplastic anemia show reduced levels of all three blood cell lines: red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets.
5. Leukemia
Leukemia is a malignant clonal disease originating from hematopoietic stem cells. Patients may exhibit symptoms such as pallor, enlarged lymph nodes, and spleen enlargement. In routine blood tests, patients with leukemia often show abnormally elevated white blood cell counts and may have abnormal cells such as blasts or immature cells present.
Maintaining good lifestyle and dietary habits, regular sleep patterns, and moderate exercise can help prevent the occurrence of diseases.