Hemogram Test
Blood consists of red blood cells (RBCs), haemoglobin, white blood cells (WBCs) and platelets. Out of these, RBCs are the highest in number. When an unusual condition occurs in the body, such as infection, leukaemia, or anaemia, there is a change in the composition of the blood, i.e., the number of RBCS, WBCS and platelets changes from normal. Additionally, in case of inflammation in the body, the properties of RBCs deviate from normal.
Doctors use these two facts about blood composition to diagnose various health conditions through a hemogram test. Understanding the hemogram test can help one better discuss test results with the doctor and follow the required medical directions. This article discusses the hemogram test, what it is, why it is needed, how to prepare for it, and more.
What is the Hemogram Test?
The hemogram test is a combination of two blood tests: complete blood count (CBC) and erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR).
A complete blood count measures the size and number of RBCs, haemoglobin, WBCs and platelets. The doctor can diagnose infection, immune function, anaemia and cancer using these values.
An erythrocyte sedimentation rate test measures inflammation levels in the body. Inflammation develops when the immune system reacts to injury, infection, immune disorders and certain cancers. However, an ESR test does not reveal the cause of inflammation.
The complete hemogram test combines these two tests and can indicate the overall health status of the body.
When is a Hemogram Test Done?
A doctor can order a hemogram test when the patient presents with the following symptoms:
1. Weakness
2. Fever
3. Fatigue
4. Unexplained weight loss
5. Joint stiffness
6. Shoulder pain
7. Bruising
Why is a Hemogram Test Required?
A CBC and hemogram test is done for the following reasons:
1. To Check Overall Health: A hemogram test is usually a part of a general examination to check overall health and look for conditions like anaemia, leukaemia and rheumatoid arthritis.
2. To Diagnose a Medical Condition: A hemogram test can help the doctor find a cause for fever, weakness, unexplained weight loss, joint stiffness or bleeding.
3. To Look for Inflammation: Inflammation occurs in the body due to a reaction of the immune system. Certain conditions like tumours, infections and auto-immune diseases can increase inflammation in the body. A hemogram test can detect this increase in inflammation.
4. To Monitor a Medical Condition: When treating medical conditions that involve the RBCs, WBCs, platelets or inflammation in the body, a hemogram test can help in monitoring and assessing recovery. For example, a hemogram test can reveal whether a particular treatment reduces inflammation in the body as intended.
5. To Monitor a Medical Treatment: Certain treatments like radiotherapy and chemotherapy can affect the blood cells. A hemogram test can help monitor the effect of certain treatments or medicines on the body.
How to Interpret the Results of a Hemogram Test?
The normal ranges for a complete hemogram test list are:
| Red Blood Count | Male: 4.35 trillion – 5.65 trillion cells/L
Female: 3.92 trillion – 5.13 trillion cells/L |
| Haemoglobin | Male: 132 – 166 grams/L
Female: 116 – 150 grams/L |
| Hematocrit | Male: 38.3% – 48.6%
Female: 35.5% – 44.9% |
| White Blood Cell Count | 3.4 billion – 9.6 billion cells/L |
| Platelets | Male: 135 billion – 317 billion/L
Female: 157 billion – 371 billion/L |
| ESR | Male: <15 mm/hr
Female: <20 mm/hr Newborn: 0 to 2 mm/hr |
Test results above and below the normal range can indicate:
1. RBC count, Hematocrit and Haemoglobin: These three parameters each measure a facet of RBCs. A value lower than normal for these parameters can indicate anaemia. A higher-than-normal value, on the other hand, can indicate erythrocytosis, blood cancer or heart disease.
2. WBC Count: A lower-than-normal WBC count can indicate auto-immune conditions, bone marrow problems or cancer. A higher-than-normal WBC count usually indicates infection or inflammation.
3. Platelet Count: A lower-than-normal platelet count is called thrombocytopenia, and a higher-than-normal platelet count is called thrombocytosis. Doctors usually prescribe further testing to find the cause of abnormal platelet count.
4. ESR: Several conditions can affect the ESR range. A high ESR rate indicates inflammation in the body. Further testing is usually prescribed as the ESR test does not reveal the cause of inflammation.
A hemogram test consists of a complete blood count test and an erythrocyte sedimentation rate test. It is usually part of a general health exam and can be taken at a hospital or a pathology lab by paying the hemogram test price. Upon noticing symptoms of ill health present here, individuals must consult a doctor and book a hemogram test at Dr Lal PathLabs.
FAQs
1. Why is a hemogram blood test done?
A hemogram blood test assesses overall health and helps identify the causes of ill health, such as fever, weakness, fatigue and joint pain.
2. How to prepare for a hemogram test?
Usually, no special preparation is required before a hemogram test.
