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The automated CBC. A current perspective
1Department of Pathology, Jefferson Medical College, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
Insights
Complete blood count (CBC) is a blood test profile, not a single test. Its name and included tests have evolved due to automated analyzer capabilities and laboratory variations.
Area of Science:
- Clinical pathology
- Hematology
Background:
- Complete blood count (CBC) is a common laboratory test.
- Historically, CBC has been referred to by various names such as hemogram and hematology profile.
Purpose of the Study:
- To clarify the definition and historical nomenclature of the complete blood count.
- To highlight the evolving nature of the CBC test profile.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of historical and current terminology for CBC.
- Analysis of factors influencing the composition of CBC panels.
Main Results:
- CBC is a profile of multiple tests, not a singular test.
- Nomenclature has varied, including hemogram, Coulter profile, blood cell profile, and hematology profile.
- The specific tests within a CBC panel vary by laboratory and analyzer technology.
Conclusions:
- The term "complete blood count" encompasses a dynamic set of tests.
- Understanding the variability in CBC nomenclature and composition is crucial for consistent interpretation.
Abstract:
CBC traditionally stands for complete blood count. It represents a profile of tests rather than a single test, and over the years it has been given several names, including hemogram, Coulter profile, blood cell profile, and hematology profile. The number and type of tests included in the profile has also changed over time and among laboratories, depending primarily upon capabilities of the automated analyzers used to perform the profile test.
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