Diagnostics·Diagnostics
Full blood count
Informed by recognized medical guidance
Overview
A full blood count is a common blood test that measures the number and health of the three main types of cells in your blood: red blood cells (which carry oxygen), white blood cells (which fight infection), and platelets (which help blood clot). It gives your doctor an important snapshot of your overall health.
Key facts
- A full blood count is one of the most frequently requested blood tests and is used to check for or monitor many different conditions.
- The test can help find anaemia (low red blood cells), infections, inflammation, bleeding disorders, and blood cancers like leukaemia.
- Abnormal results do not always mean a serious problem – they can also be caused by minor infections, medications, or diet.
Yes, it is a very common test that millions of people have every year, often as part of a routine check-up or to help diagnose an illness.
The full blood count test is used for people of all ages – from newborn babies to older adults – whenever a doctor needs to check their blood health.