CBC Results Explained: WBC, Hb, MCV & Platelets

A CBC looks at white cells, red cells, and platelets. Always compare values to your lab's own reference interval.

Key Lines

• WBC: high = infection, stress, steroids; low = viral illness, meds.
• Hb/Hct: low suggests anemia; high can reflect dehydration or hypoxia.
• MCV: red cell size. Low = microcytosis; high = macrocytosis.
• Platelets: very low or very high needs clinician review.

Patterns clinicians look for

• Low MCV + high RDW + low ferritin => iron deficiency pattern.
• High MCV + low B12/folate => B12/folate deficiency pattern.

What to do next (education)

1. Check symptoms, meds (incl. steroids/chemo), recent infections.
2. For mild isolated changes, a clinician may recheck in 1–2 weeks.
3. Discuss iron studies for microcytosis; B12/folate/TSH for macrocytosis.

Disclaimer: Educational information only — not a diagnosis, treatment, or prescription.