complete blood count

complete blood count (CBC), laboratory test that measures the number and characteristics of multiple different blood components. A complete blood count (CBC) test provides insight into an individual’s overall health. Such tests also are often used to help detect or diagnose a wide range of diseases and disorders, including anemia, infection, and various cancers. A CBC quantifies red blood cells (erythrocytes), white blood cells (leukocytes), platelets, hemoglobin, and hematocrit (the portion of blood consisting of...