Full blood count
Also written: CBC / FBC
What it measures
Counts and describes the cell types in blood: red cells, white cells, platelets.
Why it is ordered
The most commonly ordered baseline test, used for a general picture when there is prolonged fatigue, fever, unusual bleeding, or before a procedure.
How to prepare
Usually no fasting needed. Ask if it is bundled with other tests.
Units
Hemoglobin: g/dL ↔ g/L — convert here
What to ask
- What does this change in my plan
- How does it compare with my own previous result
- Should it be repeated, and when
This page does not include reference ranges and does not say whether your number is high or low. Reference ranges differ between laboratories and between people — read yours on your own report, with your clinician.