Diagnostic Tests for Differential Diagnosis: Complete Blood Count (CBC) with Differential

The Complete Blood Count (CBC) with differential is a crucial diagnostic test in pathology. It provides valuable insights into the composition of blood, helping physicians identify infections, inflammatory conditions, and hematologic disorders.

What is a CBC with Differential?

A CBC with differential measures various components of the blood, including:

• Red Blood Cells (RBC) - Responsible for oxygen transport.
• White Blood Cells (WBC) - Play a role in immune response.
• Platelets - Essential for blood clotting.

Why is a CBC with Differential Important?

Analyzing WBC subtypes like neutrophils, lymphocytes, monocytes, eosinophils, and basophils can aid in diagnosing infections, allergies, and hematological disorders such as leukemia.

Interpreting CBC Results

The results of a CBC with differential help medical professionals determine abnormalities, such as:

• Elevated WBC counts, indicating possible infection or inflammation.
• Low RBC counts, suggesting anemia.
• Irregular platelet counts, affecting blood clotting function.

Doctors compare these results with standard reference ranges to arrive at an accurate diagnosis.

Conclusion

The CBC with differential is a foundational test in pathology, providing essential data for diagnosing various medical conditions.