Complete Blood Count

Laboratory Test

What is the test?

A complete blood count (CBC) is a commonly requested diagnostic test that provides an abundance of information.

This lab test typically is used to:

●  test for the presence of bacterial or viral infection by evaluating the white blood cell count

●  evaluate blood differential, which indicates what types of white blood cells predominate, to help determine if an existing infection is bacterial, viral, or parasitic

●  measure blood hematocrit and hemoglobin in testing for anemia

●  determine platelet count and blood-clotting ability.

How do I prepare?

There is no special preparation or fasting required for a CBC.

How is the test done?

The CBC requires a needle stick, typically in the arm, to draw a sample of your blood for analysis.

How and when will I get my test results?

Lab test results are usually available either the same day or the following day. The results will be sent directly to your doctor, who will share them with you.

Where is the test performed?

You may go to any of Cayuga Medical Center’s five Laboratory sites. The locations are:  Cayuga Medical Center at 101 Dates Drive in Ithaca; the Cayuga Professional Building at 1301 Trumansburg Road, Ithaca; 5 Evergreen Street in Dryden; Convenient Care at Ithaca on Arrowwood Drive off Warren Road; and Convenient Care at Cortland on Route 281 and Commons Avenue.

If you have questions regarding lab testing, you can reach the Cayuga Medical Center Laboratory at (607) 274-4474.