Complete Blood Count + Differential
Red cells, white cells, and platelets to screen for anemia, infection, and immune response.
Blood draw
24 hrs
Physician-reviewed
What this panel measures
- Red blood cell count, hemoglobin, and hematocrit — oxygen-carrying capacity
- MCV, MCH, and MCHC — red cell size and color, which point to the type of anemia
- White blood cell count with differential — neutrophils, lymphocytes, monocytes, eosinophils, basophils
- Platelet count — clotting capacity
Why providers order it
- Screening for anemia and low iron stores
- Detecting active infection or an unusual immune response
- Routine pre-operative and annual screening
- Following up on fatigue, bruising, or frequent illness
No fasting or special preparation is required.
Complete Blood Count + Differential: frequently asked questions
What does a CBC with differential show?
It measures your red cells, white cells (broken down by type), and platelets. The differential tells your provider whether an infection is bacterial or viral, or whether anemia is present and what might be driving it.
Can a CBC detect cancer or leukemia?
A CBC is a screening test, not a diagnostic one. It can flag abnormal cell counts or unusual cell shapes that warrant follow-up, but it cannot diagnose cancer on its own. Most abnormal CBCs turn out to have benign causes like infection or iron deficiency.
How long do CBC results take?
CBC results are typically reported within 24 hours and are physician-reviewed before release.
Often ordered together
Comprehensive Metabolic Panel
Glucose, electrolytes, kidney and liver enzymes — the foundational snapshot of metabolic health.
Micronutrient Panel
Vitamin D, B12, folate, iron, ferritin, zinc, and magnesium — the cellular fuel gauge.
This page is educational and does not replace medical advice. Testing decisions should be reviewed with a licensed provider.