Comprehensive Guide to the CBC w/ diff. & platelets 

One of the most commonly performed lab tests is a complete blood count, or CBC. This group of tests evaluates blood cells and provides useful information about overall health and well-being. A CBC is often performed as part of a yearly medical screening to monitor a patient’s health. It can also assist in the diagnosis of various diseases that affect the blood, including infection, anemia, and some cancers.  

What is a CBC w/ diff. & platelets?

A complete blood count is a group of tests that evaluate blood cells, including red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. A CBC with differential and platelets includes counts of each of the 5 types of white blood cells (neutrophils, eosinophils, lymphocytes, basophils, and monocytes). These individual values are useful for differentiating between different types of disease. 

What is a CBC w/ diff. & platelets used for?

A complete blood count is a routine procedure performed for a variety of different reasons. As this test evaluates overall health, it can be used as part of a routine health screening, to diagnose various diseases, or to monitor the effects of various medical treatments.

What is reported by a CBC w/ diff. & platelets?

A CBC w/ diff & platelets reports a variety of markers related to your blood cells and overall health. It measures total red blood cells, hemoglobin, hematocrit, mean corpuscular volume (MCV) of red blood cells, mean corpuscular hemoglobin (MCH) of red blood cells, mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration (MCHC) of red blood cells, total white blood cells, total neutrophils, total eosinophils, total lymphocytes, total basophils, total monocytes, and total platelets.

What are the testing instructions for a CBC w/ diff. & platelets?

The CBC w/ diff. & platelets requires a whole blood sample. A phlebotomist must collect this sample at a draw laboratory; the patient cannot collect it at home. The phlebotomist handles sample collection, preparation, and shipping. Rupa Health is completely separate from phlebotomy and we do not have any partner draw sites or laboratories. Patients can find a blood draw location by using Vibrant America’s blood draw locator or by reaching out to us at [email protected]. 

Who can order a CBC w/ diff. & platelets test?

Any practitioner with an NPI number can order a CBC w/ diff. & platelets from Vibrant America. If you have questions about whether or not you can order this test, reach out to us at [email protected] or through your Rupa Health portal. 

Similar tests to the CBC w/ diff. & platelets 

CBCs are offered from almost all basic blood labs, including Vibrant America, Boston Heart, Access Medical, Quest, and LabCorp. These tests can be ordered with or without the white blood cell differential. 

What does it mean when a CBC with differential is abnormal?

Abnormal results typically indicate the presence of an infection or disease. Further testing is needed to determine the specific disease that is present. 

Can a CBC with differential detect cancer?

Yes, a CBC with differential can be used to detect cancers such as leukemia, lymphoma, and any cancer that has spread to the bone marrow. However, more tests beyond a CBC w/ diff are needed in order to make a diagnosis.