How to read a complete blood count (CBC) test report

Oct 26, 2023 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Liu Feng

Introduction

The main parameters to review on a routine blood test include white blood cell count, hemoglobin, red blood cell count, platelets, and neutrophils. The normal red blood cell count for males is (4.0–5.5) × 10¹²/L, and for females is (3.0–5.0) × 10¹²/L. Clinically, the significance of increases or decreases in red blood cell count is essentially the same as that for changes in hemoglobin levels.

Blood routine test reports primarily focus on white blood cells, hemoglobin, red blood cell count, platelets, and neutrophils. The specific analysis is as follows:

1. White Blood Cells (WBC): The normal adult range is (4.0–10.0) × 10⁹/L; for newborns, it is (15.0–20.0) × 10⁹/L; and for infants aged 6 months to 2 years, the range is (5.0–12.0) × 10⁹/L. Elevated white blood cell counts commonly occur in infections, but can also be seen in chronic leukemia, malignant tumors, uremia, diabetes, and acute poisoning from chemical drugs.

2. Hemoglobin: Normal hemoglobin levels are 131–172 g/L for males and 113–151 g/L for females. Increased hemoglobin levels are often associated with pathological conditions such as high-altitude sickness, polycythemia vera, and chronic pulmonary heart disease.

3. Red Blood Cell Count: The normal red blood cell count for males is (4.0–5.5) × 10¹²/L and for females is (3.0–5.0) × 10¹²/L. Changes in red blood cell count generally have similar clinical significance to changes in hemoglobin levels.

4. Platelets: The normal platelet count for males is (100–300) × 10⁹/L and for females is (101–320) × 10⁹/L. Decreased platelet counts may occur in cases of bone marrow hematopoietic dysfunction, aplastic anemia, acute hemorrhagic anemia (such as after splenectomy or fractures), among others.

5. Neutrophils: The normal absolute reference value is (1.8–6.3) × 10⁹/L, with a percentage range of 40%–75%. Higher-than-normal values may indicate severe tissue damage or extensive destruction of blood cells, such as after major surgery, acute myocardial infarction, or acute hemolytic reactions.

Based on these values, the body's condition can be clearly reflected. Therefore, any abnormalities should be taken seriously, and further medical evaluation should be conducted in consultation with a physician.

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What diseases can be detected through a complete blood count (CBC)?

Under normal circumstances, a routine blood test refers to a complete blood count (CBC). A CBC may help detect various conditions such as viral colds, iron-deficiency anemia, allergic diseases, aplastic anemia, and leukopenia. Routine blood tests can aid in the diagnosis of multiple diseases. In daily life, it is important to maintain a balanced diet, enhance physical fitness, and take other measures to help prevent the occurrence of related diseases.

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Which blood test parameter in a complete blood count reflects liver disease?

In general, liver disease is indirectly reflected in routine blood tests through changes in white blood cell count, red blood cell-related parameters, and platelet count; however, a routine blood test is not a direct indicator of liver function. It is important to maintain regular daily habits and avoid staying up late, which can加重 the burden on the liver. Diet should be light and easily digestible, with ample intake of high-quality protein, fresh vegetables, and fruits.