Complete Blood Count With Differential

Alternative Names/Synonyms	CBC, Hemoglobin, Hgb, Platelet, PLT, White Blood Cell Counts, WBC, CBC With Diff, Full Blood Count, Blood Cell Count
Laboratory	Core Laboratory & Transfusion Medicine
Sub-section	Hematology
Specimen Type	Blood
Test Code	CBC3

Ordering Instructions, Requisition

Hematopathology Requisition
(MS 333A)

Clinical Significance (If applicable)

A complete blood count, or CBC, is a blood test that measures and examines red blood cells (RBCs), white blood cells (WBCs) and platelets (PLTs). The testing includes hemoglobin, hematocrit, red cell count, White blood cell count, platelet count, red cell indices, white blood cell differential.

Specimen Requirements (Sample Type)

Whole Blood (EDTA)

Specimen Requirements (Volume (mL))

Adult: 1 - 4 mL
Pediatric: Micro tube 0.5 - 1 mL

Specimen Requirements (Tube Type)

Lavender whole blood tube with EDTA Collection Containers – Tube Types

Draw (mL)

Adult: 4 mL
Pediatric: Micro tube 1 mL

Collection Requirements

Collection Instructions

Cause for Rejection

Specimen Acceptability and Transport Guidance

Instrument, Methodology

Automated CBC Analyzer

Test Availability

24 hours, 7 days/week.

STAT Turnaround Time

30 minutes

Routine Turnaround Time

2 hours

Reference Ranges

Reference Ranges vary depending on sex, age and will be included in the result report.

Laboratory Contact Information

416-586-4800 Extension 4688