Key takeaways
- A CBC counts red cells, white cells and platelets - no fasting needed.
- Low haemoglobin means anaemia; iron deficiency is the most common cause in India.
- Normal platelets are about 1.5–4.5 lakh/µL; they often fall in dengue and viral fevers.
- Your doctor reads CBC results together with symptoms and other tests.
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- Complete Blood Count (CBC)
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- ESR (Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate)
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- Platelet Count
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The complete blood count (CBC), also called a hemogram, is the most commonly ordered blood test in the world. It counts and measures the three main types of cells in your blood - red blood cells, white blood cells and platelets - and gives doctors fast clues about anaemia, infection, inflammation, bleeding problems and many other conditions.
At HWP Diagnostic the CBC test is ₹199, with free home sample collection and no fasting required.
What does a CBC measure?
- Haemoglobin (Hb) - the oxygen-carrying protein in red cells. Low haemoglobin means anaemia.
- Red blood cell (RBC) count, haematocrit (PCV) - the number and proportion of red cells.
- Red cell indices (MCV, MCH, MCHC, RDW) - the size and haemoglobin content of red cells, which help identify the type of anaemia.
- White blood cell (WBC) count and differential - neutrophils, lymphocytes, monocytes, eosinophils and basophils, your infection-fighting cells.
- Platelet count - the cells that help blood clot.
CBC normal range (adults)
Reference ranges differ slightly between labs, age groups and sexes. These are typical adult values; always compare with the range printed on your own report.
| Parameter | Men | Women |
|---|---|---|
| Haemoglobin | 13.0–17.0 g/dL | 12.0–15.5 g/dL |
| RBC count | 4.5–5.5 million/µL | 3.8–4.8 million/µL |
| Haematocrit (PCV) | 40–50% | 36–46% |
| MCV | 80–100 fL | |
| Total WBC count | 4,000–11,000 /µL | |
| Platelet count | 1.5–4.5 lakh /µL | |
What do high or low values mean?
Low haemoglobin (anaemia)
The most common cause in India is iron deficiency, especially in women, children and people with poor diet or blood loss. A low MCV points towards iron deficiency, while a high MCV suggests vitamin B12 or folate deficiency. Your doctor may order iron studies or a vitamin B12 test to confirm.
High or low WBC count
A raised WBC count usually signals an infection or inflammation; very high counts need further evaluation. A low count can occur in some viral infections (including dengue), with certain medicines, or with bone-marrow problems. The differential shows which type of white cell is affected - for example raised eosinophils are common in allergies and worm infestations.
Low platelets
Low platelets (thrombocytopenia) are commonly seen in dengue, malaria and other viral fevers. During dengue, doctors often repeat the CBC or a platelet count daily to track the trend. Seek medical care urgently if platelets fall quickly or you notice bleeding gums, nose bleeds or red spots on the skin.
When is a CBC ordered?
- As part of a routine or full body checkup.
- For fever lasting more than two or three days - see our fever test packages.
- For tiredness, weakness, breathlessness or pale skin (possible anaemia).
- For easy bruising or bleeding.
- To monitor treatment such as chemotherapy or medicines that affect blood counts.
Preparation and report time
No fasting or special preparation is needed for a CBC. Stay hydrated and tell the phlebotomist about any medicines you take. The sample is a small amount of blood from a vein in your arm, and at HWP Diagnostic your report is usually ready the same day or within 24 hours. A CBC is often combined with an ESR test (₹299) when doctors are looking for inflammation.
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Live prices · free home sample collection in Malad, Kandivali, Borivali & Goregaon
Complete Blood Count (CBC)
- Report in 12 hrs
- Free home collection
ESR (Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate)
- Report in 12 hrs
- Free home collection
Platelet Count
- Report in 24 hrs
- Free home collection
Iron Studies
- Report in 24 hrs
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Frequently asked questions
Is fasting required for a CBC test?
No. A CBC does not need fasting and can be done at any time of day. If it is being done with other tests that need fasting, follow the fasting instructions for those.
What is the normal platelet count?
A typical adult platelet count is about 1.5 to 4.5 lakh per microlitre (150,000–450,000/µL). Your lab report shows the exact reference range used.
How long does a CBC report take?
CBC is a quick automated test. At HWP Diagnostic the report is usually available the same day or within 24 hours of sample collection.
Can a CBC detect dengue?
A CBC cannot confirm dengue, but it is used to monitor it - a falling platelet count and rising haematocrit are important warning signs. Dengue itself is confirmed with an NS1 antigen or IgM antibody test.
HWP Diagnostic Editorial Team
Health guides written by the team at HWP Diagnostic, Mumbai, to help you understand your tests before you book. This article is for general education and is not a substitute for medical advice - reference ranges vary between labs, so always discuss your results with your doctor. Read our editorial policy. Photos: Pexels.
