What Does a CBC Test Result Mean?
The results of a CBC test can determine different things depending on what component of the blood has an increase or decrease. Certain disease states can be defined by an absolute increase or decrease in the number of a particular type of cell in the bloodstream. If a person has an increased level of white blood cells, an infection could be present. Other causes of an increased WBC include inflammation, cancer and leukemia. A decrease in WBC can be caused by some medications, autoimmune conditions, bone marrow failure and congenital marrow aplasia. The red blood cell count is decreased with anemia. Fluid loss such as diarrhea, dehydration, or a burn accident can cause a red blood cell count to decrease. Hemoglobin and hematocrit levels mirror the red blood cell count. Platelet levels are decreased or increased depending on the conditions that affect platelet production. The level is decreased when greater numbers are used such as bleeding. Inherited disorders such as Wiskott-Aldrich an
