Ulta Lab Tests

Blood Count

A blood count, commonly called a Complete Blood Count (CBC), evaluates the major blood cell lines—red blood cells (RBCs), white blood cells (WBCs), and platelets. Because many conditions affect these cells, a CBC is one of the most useful tests for screening, diagnosis, and monitoring across blood disorders and general health. It can help your clinician assess anemia, infection or inflammation, bleeding risk, recovery from illness, and medication effects.

With Ulta Lab Tests, you can order a CBC or CBC with Differential online, complete a quick draw at a nearby lab, and get fast, secure results to review with your healthcare provider.

Signs & Symptoms (When to consider testing)

  • Possible anemia: fatigue, weakness, shortness of breath, pale skin, headaches, dizziness

  • Possible infection/inflammation: fever, chills, sore throat, persistent cough, urinary symptoms, wound issues

  • Bleeding or clotting concerns: easy bruising, nose/gum bleeding, heavy periods, prolonged bleeding after cuts/procedures

  • Immune or marrow conditions: frequent infections, swollen lymph nodes, night sweats, unexplained weight loss

  • Monitoring needs: chronic disease follow-up, chemotherapy/medication monitoring, pre-op evaluation, wellness baseline

Related search terms: CBC test, complete blood count, blood cell count, hemoglobin/hematocrit, WBC differential, platelets, RDW, MCV, neutropenia, thrombocytopenia.

Why These Tests Matter

What a blood count can do

  • Identify low or high RBCs/hemoglobin/hematocrit to screen for anemia or polycythemia

  • Measure WBCs and the differential (neutrophils, lymphocytes, monocytes, eosinophils, basophils) to support evaluation of infection, inflammation, or immune disorders

  • Quantify platelets to assess bleeding risk (low) or thrombotic risk (very high)

  • Provide baseline & trend data to monitor illness or treatment

What it cannot do

  • Specify the exact cause of abnormalities on its own—follow-up tests (e.g., iron studies, B12/folate, hemolysis panel, peripheral smear, reticulocyte count) and a clinical exam are often needed.

What These Tests Measure (at a glance)

  • Red blood cell series

    • Hemoglobin (Hgb), Hematocrit (Hct), RBC count: oxygen-carrying capacity

    • MCV/MCH/MCHC: red cell size & hemoglobin content (helps classify microcytic/normocytic/macrocytic anemia)

    • RDW: variation in RBC size; elevated in mixed or evolving anemias

  • White blood cell series

    • Total WBC and Differential: neutrophils, lymphocytes, monocytes, eosinophils, basophils—patterns can suggest bacterial/viral infection, allergy/asthma, or other immune conditions

  • Platelets

    • Platelet count and MPV (mean platelet volume): bleeding/thrombotic risk clues and marrow production activity

Common add-ons (ordered separately): Reticulocyte count (marrow response), Iron/TIBC/Ferritin, Vitamin B12 & Folate, Hemolysis markers (LDH, haptoglobin, bilirubin), Peripheral smear.

How the Testing Process Works

  1. Order online: choose a CBC or CBC with Differential (adds detailed WBC breakdown).

  2. Visit a local lab: quick blood draw at a nearby patient service center.

  3. Get results fast: most CBC results post within 24–48 hours to your secure account.

  4. Review with your clinician: align findings with symptoms and, if needed, add follow-up tests.

Interpreting Results (general guidance)

  • Low Hgb/Hct (anemia): consider iron deficiency, B12/folate deficiency, chronic disease, kidney disease, or hemolysis. MCV/RDW patterns help narrow causes.

  • High Hgb/Hct (polycythemia): dehydration or primary/secondary polycythemia—clinician evaluation needed.

  • High WBC (leukocytosis): often infection, inflammation, stress response; very high counts require prompt review.

  • Low WBC (leukopenia/neutropenia): increased infection risk; can be medication-related or marrow/immune conditions.

  • Low platelets (thrombocytopenia): bleeding risk; causes include medications, immune issues, infection, marrow disorders.

  • High platelets (thrombocytosis): reactive (inflammation/iron deficiency) or primary marrow condition—clinician will interpret in context.

Always interpret labs with a qualified healthcare professional.

Choosing Panels vs. Individual Tests

  • First look: CBC with Differential for the most complete cellular picture.

  • If anemia suspected: add Iron/TIBC/Ferritin, B12/Folate, ± Reticulocyte count and hemolysis markers.

  • If infection/inflammation suspected: combine with CRP/ESR; consider cultures or targeted tests per symptoms.

  • Ongoing monitoring: repeat CBC at clinician-directed intervals (e.g., medication or chemotherapy monitoring).

FAQs

What is the difference between a CBC and a CBC with Differential?
Both measure RBCs, WBCs, and platelets; the Differential breaks WBCs into neutrophils, lymphocytes, monocytes, eosinophils, basophils for deeper insight.

Can a CBC diagnose anemia by itself?
It confirms low hemoglobin/hematocrit, but cause needs follow-up tests (iron studies, B12/folate, reticulocytes, smear).

Do I need to fast?
Fasting is not usually required for a CBC. Follow any preparation listed for your specific order.

How quickly are results ready?
Most CBC results are available within 24–48 hours after your draw.

How often should I repeat a CBC?
Depends on your situation—wellness baseline, new symptoms, medication monitoring, or physician-directed follow-up.

Can medications affect my blood count?
Yes. Some drugs influence WBCs or platelets. Always share your medication list with your clinician.

Internal Links & Cross-References

  • Blood Disorders Hub

  • Blood Chemistry Tests

  • Bleeding Disorders

  • Iron Deficiency Anemia

  • Hemolytic Anemia

  • Pernicious Anemia & B Vitamins

  • Key Lab Tests: CBC • CBC with Differential • Reticulocyte Count • Iron & TIBC • Ferritin • Vitamin B12 • Folate • LDH • Haptoglobin • Bilirubin

Available Tests & Panels

Tip: Start with a CBC with Differential for broad screening; add reticulocyte count and iron/B12/folate studies when anemia is suspected.

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The Complete Blood Count with Differential and Platelets Test is a comprehensive blood test that checks red blood cells, white blood cells, hemoglobin, hematocrit, and platelets. The differential analyzes types of white blood cells to detect infections, anemia, clotting abnormalities, immune conditions, and certain cancers. This essential test is often ordered for routine health exams, diagnosis, and monitoring treatment progress.

Blood
Blood Draw
Also Known As: CBC Test, CBC with Differential and Platelets Test, CBC w/Diff and Platelets Test, Full Blood Count Test, Complete Blood Count Test
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The CBC with H/H, RBC, Indices, WBC and Platelets Test evaluates overall blood health by measuring hemoglobin, hematocrit, red blood cell count, size and indices, white blood cell levels, and platelets. It helps detect anemia, infections, clotting disorders, and immune or bone marrow conditions. Frequently ordered in routine exams, this test supports diagnosis, monitoring of chronic disease, and assessment of general health.

Blood
Blood Draw
Also Known As: Complete Blood Count Test, Hemogram Test
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The Absolute Lymphocyte Count Test quantifies lymphocytes in blood, expressing immunity status through an absolute cell count rather than relative percentage. It aids in diagnosing immune disorders, tracking viral infection recovery, or identifying early signs of hematologic disease. By distinguishing lymphocytosis and lymphopenia, this test provides clinicians insight into immune suppression, overactivation, or recovery phases in infections or immunocompromised states.

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The Hematocrit Test measures the percentage of red blood cells in blood, helping evaluate oxygen-carrying capacity and overall health. Abnormal results may indicate anemia, dehydration, polycythemia, or other blood disorders. Doctors use this test to investigate fatigue, weakness, or suspected blood loss and to monitor conditions affecting red cell production. Often performed with a CBC, it provides essential insight into blood and bone marrow function.

Blood
Blood Draw
Also Known As: HCT Test, Crit Test, Packed Cell Volume Test, PCV Test
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The Hemoglobin Test measures the amount of hemoglobin in blood, the protein that carries oxygen to tissues. Low hemoglobin may indicate anemia, blood loss, or nutritional deficiencies, while high levels may suggest dehydration, lung disease, or bone marrow disorders. Doctors order this test to evaluate fatigue, weakness, or shortness of breath. Results provide key insight into oxygen transport, red blood cell health, and overall hematologic function.

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Blood Draw
Also Known As: Hgb Test
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The Hemoglobinopathy Evaluation screens for abnormal hemoglobin variants and thalassemias by analyzing the types and amounts of hemoglobin in blood. This test helps diagnose sickle cell disease, beta thalassemia, alpha thalassemia, and other inherited disorders affecting red blood cells. Doctors use it to investigate anemia, unexplained blood abnormalities, or family history of hemoglobinopathies, guiding diagnosis, genetic counseling, and treatment planning.

Also Known As: Hemoglobin Evaluation Test, Hb ELP Test, Hb IEF, Sickle Cell Screen Test, Hemoglobin Fraction Test, Hemoglobinopathies Test
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The Hemogram Test provides a detailed blood profile including WBC, RBC, hemoglobin, hematocrit, red blood cell indices (MCV, MCH, MCHC, RDW), plus platelets and MPV. It assists in detecting anemia type, infection, hydration status, or bone marrow issues. This test offers insight into oxygen delivery, clotting status, immune function, and systemic wellness.

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The Hemogram and Differential Test provides a detailed analysis of blood health by measuring red blood cells, white blood cells, hemoglobin, hematocrit, and platelets. The differential count breaks down types of white blood cells, including neutrophils, lymphocytes, monocytes, eosinophils, and basophils. This test helps detect anemia, infections, immune response, clotting disorders, and other hematologic or systemic conditions.

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The Obstetric Panel is a prenatal blood test panel that screens for conditions affecting pregnancy and maternal health. It typically includes a Complete Blood Count, blood typing with Rh factor, antibody screen, and infectious disease testing such as hepatitis B, syphilis, rubella, and HIV. Doctors use this panel in early pregnancy to evaluate overall health, identify risks, and ensure safe monitoring for both mother and baby.

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The Platelet IgG IgM Antibodies Test detects antibodies directed against platelet surface antigens to help identify immune-mediated platelet destruction. Elevated platelet-associated IgG or IgM antibodies can indicate immune thrombocytopenia (ITP), drug-induced thrombocytopenia, or transfusion reactions. This test supports evaluation of unexplained low platelet counts and autoimmune hematologic disorders.

Blood
Blood Draw
Also Known As: Indirect Platelet Antibodies Test
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The Platelet Count Test evaluates platelet levels in blood to assess clotting ability and overall hematologic health. Low counts may suggest bone marrow disorders, immune conditions, or increased bleeding risk, while high counts can be linked to inflammation, thrombosis, or myeloproliferative disease. This test provides insight into clotting function, systemic balance, and circulatory health.

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Blood Draw
Also Known As: Platelet Count EDTA Test
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The Red Blood Cell Count Test measures the number of red blood cells circulating in the blood, essential for evaluating oxygen transport and overall health. Abnormal levels may indicate anemia, iron deficiency, vitamin B12 or folate deficiency, dehydration, or bone marrow disorders. This test provides critical insight into hematologic health and is often part of a complete blood count to guide further evaluation.

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Blood Draw
Also Known As: RBC Count Test
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The Reticulocyte Count Test measures immature red blood cells (reticulocytes) to evaluate bone marrow function and red cell production. High levels may indicate blood loss, hemolytic anemia, or recovery from treatment, while low levels may suggest bone marrow failure, nutritional deficiencies, or chronic disease. Doctors use this test to assess anemia, monitor therapy, or track recovery. Results provide key insight into red blood cell health and overall hematologic function.

Blood
Blood Draw
Also Known As: Retic Count Reticulocyte Percent Test, Reticulocyte Index Test, Corrected Reticulocyte Test, Reticulocyte Production Index Test, RPI Test
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Varied
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 The White Blood Cell Count (WBC) test, often referred to simply as a "WBC," measures the total number of white blood cells in a sample of blood. White blood cells, also known as leukocytes, are essential components of the immune system, responsible for protecting the body against infections and other foreign invaders. These cells are produced in the bone marrow and are found throughout the bloodstream and the lymphatic system.
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The White Blood Cell Count with Differential Test measures total white blood cells and breaks them into types, including neutrophils, lymphocytes, monocytes, eosinophils, and basophils. Doctors order this test to evaluate infections, inflammation, immune disorders, and blood cancers. Abnormal results may suggest bacterial or viral infections, allergies, or leukemia. Results provide key insight into immune system health, disease detection, and treatment monitoring.

Blood
Blood Draw
Also Known As: WBC Test, Leukocyte Test, Leukocyte Differential Test, Blood Differential Test, Diff Test, Peripheral Differential Test
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CBC Explained: How to Understand Your Complete Blood Count

A complete blood count (CBC) is a blood test that your doctor may order to get an in-depth examination of your health. 

If you're looking to take control and improve your health, it's important that you have an understanding of what exactly a CBC measures. That's why today, we've got a complete CBC explained guide to help you understand what a CBC test is and where your test results should be.

Are you looking to learn more about how to understand your complete blood count? We've created a complete guide to help you understand. Keep reading to learn more!

CBC Explained: What Is a Complete Blood Count?

A complete blood count test is often called a CBC test. This blood test provides a medical professional with an important look at the health of one's blood. The information that a CBC test provides professionals can help lead to a diagnosis of cancer, an infection, anemia, and other health conditions.

A CBC test measures the white blood cells, the red blood cells, and the blood platelets found in your blood. This is one of the most commonly ordered blood tests, as it's a great way for doctors to take a peek into your overall health without excessive testing.

What Biomarkers Are Measured? 

Fifteen biomarkers are measured with a complete blood cell test. Here are the biomarkers that are measured and what they each mean for your health:

Red Blood Cell Count

Red blood cells are the most plentiful type of cell found in your blood. Surprisingly, nearly half of the volume of your blood is comprised of red blood cells.

The primary function of the red blood cell is to gather up oxygen from the lungs, move it through your body, and leave it with your tissues. What makes red blood cells so unique is that they have hemoglobin, which is a protein that carries iron.

Thanks to the hemoglobin found in your red blood cells, it can saturate themselves with oxygen and release it the tissues in your body that need it the most. Keeping a healthy balance of red blood cells is incredibly essential for your body to function normally. 

The red blood cell count detects the number of red blood cells that are in your blood. In addition, this test also shows how much oxygen your blood cells have the potential to carry.

If your red blood cell count is low, it could be a sign that your red blood cells are breaking down at an unsustainable rate. It could also be a sign that your red blood cells aren't being produced fast enough. When your red blood cells aren't being produced quickly enough, it's a sign that your body is lacking specific nutrients.

A healthy range for a RBC count in females is 3.80-5.10 million/uL and in males 4.20-5.80 million/uL, as reported by Quest.

Hemoglobin

Hemoglobin is vital to the red blood cell. The CBC measures the amount of hemoglobin found in your blood, as well as how much oxygen your red blood cells can carry.

For females, a standard range of hemoglobin is 11.7-15.5 g/dL. For men, a healthy range is between 13.2.0-17.1 g/dL, as reported through Quest.

Hematocrit

Hematocrit biomarker identifies how much blood as a percentage comes from red blood cells. It also is an indicator of how much oxygen your blood can carry. When your hematocrit levels are balanced, your body's physical performance is increased.

Plus, healthy levels of hematocrit can help to ensure the health of your cardiovascular system, which can reduce your risk of having a stroke.

For men, a healthy level of hematocrit is between 38.5% to 50%, while a healthy level for women is between 35% and 45%, as reported through Quest.

MCV

MCV is an abbreviation of the term mean corpuscular volume. Mean corpuscular volume measures the size of your red blood cells. Discovering the size of your red blood cells is important, as it's an indicator of how much oxygen your cells can carry.

Small red blood cells can be a tool in diagnosing an iron deficiency. In contrast, large red blood cells show that your body has the capability of carrying a more substantial amount of hemoglobin.

A normal range will fall between 80 to 100 femtoliters.

MCH

MCH is an abbreviation of the term mean corpuscular hemoglobin. MCH is one of the ways that is used to discover the average amount of hemoglobin that's in one red blood cell. Often paired with MCHC, this biomarker is used to find out the potential for the average red blood cell's ability to carry oxygen throughout your body.

You must keep in mind that MCH is simply an average. However, the normal range is between 27 to 33 picograms, as reported by Quest.

MCHC

MCHC is an abbreviation of the term mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration. This is another biomarker used to discover how much hemoglobin is available in a single red blood cell.

You also should keep in the back of your mind that MCHC is an average. A healthy range for the MCHC test is between 32-36 g/dL, as reported by Quest.

RDW

RDW stands for _red blood cell distribution width. _This biomarker shows how unvarying the volume of your red blood cells is. The higher your RDW is is a sign that there's a significant dissimilarity among your red blood cells.

An iron deficiency, chronic inflammation, or a nutritional imbalance can contributing factors for a high RDW.

For males and females, a healthy RDW is between 11% to 15%, as reported by Quest.

Platelet Count

Platelets are the cells in your blood that are responsible for making sure that your blood can stick together enough to form a blood clot.

A healthy platelet count should range between 140-400 thousand/uL, as reported by Quest.

MPV

MPV is an abbreviation of the term _mean platelet volume. _This test measures the average size of the platelets that are found in your blood.

When your MPV levels are marked as high, it means that platelets are at a larger size than the average persons. This elevation could be a sign that your body is producing too many platelets.

If your MPV levels have been marked as low, it could mean that your body is destroying platelets too soon. As a result, your bone marrow is producing platelets too quickly.

White Blood Cell Differential Count

The white blood cell differential count is a summary of the different types of white blood cells that are found in your bloodstream. With the review of leukocytes, neutrophil, lymphocytes, basophils, monocytes, and eosinophils, you'll be provided with an in-depth look at your immune system.  

The Five Different Types of WBC:

Separate from your red blood cells, white blood cells are also tested during a CBC test. Five different types of white blood cells are found in your bloodstream and include leukocytes, neutrophils, lymphocytes, basophils, and eosinophils.

Leukocytes

White blood cells are called leukocytes, which play a vital role in maintaining the healthy functioning of your immune system. This biomarker is your white blood cell count, which is also often called your leukocyte count.

A healthy range for your WBC is between 3.8-10.8 Thousand/uL, as reported by Quest.

Neutrophils

Neutrophils are the most commonly found white blood cells in your blood, making for about 70% of the white blood cells found in your body. They're the first response your body uses to fight against any infections that enter your bloodstream.

When low levels of neutrophil are found in your blood, it may be a sign that your body is fighting against a viral infection. Another cause of low neutrophil levels in your blood is a sign that your body is adapting to the stress it's been under while you're training to become an endurance athlete.

A healthy level of neutrophils is between 1500-7800 cells/uL, as reported by Quest.

Lymphocytes

Lymphocytes represent between 20% to 40% of the white blood cells circulating throughout your blood. This white blood cell is acting as a wall of protection against the constant beratement of bacteria and infections introduced to your body.

When there's a high amount of lymphocytes found in your blood, it's a sign that your body may have a bacterial infection or that it's your body response to acute stress.

A healthy range of lymphocytes is between 850-3900 cells/uL, as reported by Quest.

Basophils

Along with eosinophils, basophils are the least common type of white blood cells. If an increased amount of basophil cells are found in your bloodstream, it's a sign that your body could be fighting against an allergic reaction or an infection from a parasite.

A healthy level of basophils should be between 0-200 cells/uL, as reported by Quest.

Eosinophils

As another uncommon white blood cell, eosinophils are responsible for how your body reacts when you have an allergic reaction. High levels of eosinophils are a sign that your body is fighting off a type of infection.

A normal range of eosinophil is between 15-500 cells/uL, as reported by Quest.

Monocytes

This type of white blood cell is responsible for fighting off viruses, fungi, and bacteria. In terms of size, they're the largest white blood cell that is found in your bloodstream.

Formed in your bone marrow, this type of white blood cell is the first responder when there is a specific type of bacteria or germ that enters your body. They also play a large part in making sure that any damaged tissue is repaired correctly.

A healthy range of monocytes is between 200-950 cells/uL, as reported by Quest.

What Health Problems Can Be Identified by a CBC?

When the doctor orders a CBC, it may just be part of the physical exam preventative care that you're getting. The results of the biomarkers will provide your doctor with a better insight into how many blood cells that are in your body, how they're shaped, and how they're functioning.

If there is a concern for many health conditions, a CBC is a useful tool to use to eliminate the concern of any potential health conditions, as well as being helpful to diagnose health conditions.

Besides a physical exam, your doctor may order a complete blood count test if you have reported: 

  • Feeling sick
  • Have had a fever
  • Showing other signs of a possible infection, such as swollen lymph nodes
  • Feeling weak
  • Easy bruising
  • Excessive bleeding or your blood takes a while to clot
  • Feeling tired all the time
  • Losing weight without trying to
  • Take medications that could affect your blood count

Here's a list of conditions that your CBC test could help you and your doctor to identify: 

  • Anemia
  • Certain forms of cancer
  • Mineral deficiencies
  • Vitamin deficiencies
  • Inflammation
  • Dehydration
  • Heart disease
  • Autoimmune disorders
  • Infection
  • Bone marrow complications

If your doctor ordered this blood test and you were looking to have CBC explained, we hope that we were able to provide you with a better understanding. The results from a CBC blood test can be beneficial when your doctor is trying to rule out or diagnose a health condition.  

The Importance of a CBC Test

If you need help understanding the health of your blood, we'd love to help. We offer the CBC lab test as part of our selection of 1,500 lab tests, and we provide explanations on each biomarker.

You can select your lab tests, order directly online, choose a convenient patient service center near you, and review your test results typically in 1 to 2 days after your blood is collected.

Take charge of your health and get tested today at ultalabtests.com.