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complete blood count
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Close-up illustration of numerous red blood cells flowing through a vein, showing their disc shape and textured surfaces within the circulatory system.
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Close-up illustration of numerous red blood cells flowing through a vein, showing their disc shape and textured surfaces within the circulatory system.
Human red blood cells An increase or decrease in the number of red blood cells detected in a complete blood count can be indicative of a disease or disorder.

complete blood count

medicine
Also known as: CBC, complete blood count
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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...

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