The hemogram test is popularly known as a complete blood count and is a very important laboratory test for assessing general health. A hemogram measures the numerical values of different cell types in the blood and is used to diagnose or monitor many diseases. This article will provide information about what a hemogram test is, how it is performed, how it is reported and what the normal value ranges are.
What is a Hemogram Test (Complete Blood Count)?
A hemogram test is a test that measures the numbers and proportions of various types of cells in the blood. It usually includes the following parameters:
Erythrocyte (red blood cell) count
Hemoglobin level
Hematocrit percentage
Leukocyte (white blood cell) count
Platelet count
How is a Hemogram Test (Complete Blood Count) Performed?
Sample Collection: A venous blood sample is usually taken. The blood is usually taken from a vein on the inner surface of the arm and placed in a special tube.
Sample Preparation: The blood sample is processed in accordance with laboratory conditions.
Analysis: Modern laboratories often use automated blood counters. The device can count different cell types quickly and precisely.
How is a Hemogram Test (Complete Blood Count) Reported?
The report usually contains the numerical values and units of the parameters mentioned above. The normal ranges of these values are also indicated. These normal ranges may vary depending on the instruments and methods used by each laboratory.
What are the Normal Values in Hemogram Test (Complete Blood Count)?
Normal values may vary according to age, gender and the method used by the laboratory. However, as a general reference, the following are accepted:
Erythrocyte Count: 4.5-5.9 million/µL in men, 4.1-5.1 million/µL in women
Hemoglobin: 13.5-17.5 g/dL in men, 12.0-15.5 g/dL in women
Hematokrit: Erkeklerde %38.8-%50.0, kadınlarda %34.9-%44.5
Leukocyte Count 4,500-11,000 cells/µL
Platelet Count 150,000-450,000 cells/µL
The parameters measured in the hemogram test are:
Red blood cell count (RBC): The number of red blood cells (erythrocytes). Erythrocytes are responsible for transporting oxygen and carbon dioxide.
Hemoglobin (HGB): A protein found in red blood cells that helps transport oxygen.
Hematocrit (HCT): The ratio of red blood cells to the total volume of blood.
Red blood cell indices (MCV, RDW, MCH, MCHC): Values showing the size and shape of red blood cells.
Platelet count (PLT): The number of cells responsible for blood clotting.
White blood cell count (WBC): The number of cells involved in body defense.
Normal values of the hemogram test may vary according to age, gender and some factors.
The results of the hemogram test can be interpreted as follows:
High RBC, HGB and HCT values: Polycythemia can be seen in conditions such as lung diseases, heart disease, kidney disease, living at high altitude, smoking, exercise.
Low RBC, HGB and HCT values: It can be seen in conditions such as anemia, blood loss, pregnancy, bone marrow diseases.
Low MCV values: It can be seen in conditions such as iron deficiency anemia, folate and vitamin B12 deficiencies, thalassemia, sickle cell anemia.
High MCV values: It can be seen in conditions such as folic acid and vitamin B12 excess, polycythemia, some bone marrow diseases.
Low MCH values: It can be seen in conditions such as iron deficiency anemia, thalassemia, sickle cell anemia.
High MCH values: It can be seen in conditions such as folic acid and vitamin B12 excess, polycythemia, some bone marrow diseases.
Low MCHC values: It can be seen in conditions such as iron deficiency anemia, thalassemia, sickle cell anemia.
High MCHC values: It can be seen in conditions such as folic acid and vitamin B12 excess, polycythemia, some bone marrow diseases.
High PLT values: It can be seen in cases such as infection, trauma, inflammation, blood cancers, bone marrow diseases.
Low PLT values: Thrombocytopenia can be seen in conditions such as bone marrow diseases, blood cancers, medications, radiation therapy.
High WBC values: It can be seen in cases such as infection, inflammation, bone marrow diseases, blood cancers, trauma, stress.
Low WBC values: It can be seen in cases such as leukemia, lymphoma, infections, bone marrow diseases, some medications, nutritional disorders.
What do the results of a hemogram test mean?
The results of the hemogram test can indicate a person's general state of health and diagnose or help diagnose any diseases, if any.
What happens if the results of a hemogram test are abnormal?
If the results of the hemogram test are abnormal, your doctor may order more tests. These tests can help diagnose the underlying cause.
What are the risks of a hemogram test?
There are no risks associated with the hemogram test.
The hemogram test is a basic laboratory test for the diagnosis and follow-up of many diseases. With just a few milliliters of blood, many different parameters can be measured. However, an abnormal result does not always indicate the presence of a serious illness. Test results should be evaluated under the guidance of a health professional.