Full Blood Counts

[Vindicatrix]

Hi All, can anyone please provide me with any information regarding 'What a Full Blood Count' is. I noticed on my last Blood Tests, that the laboratory states that they do not do full Blood tests.

I have spoken to my GP and she contradicts this, and tells me that as far as she is aware, Full Blood Counts' are always given.

The reason I am interested in this crucial aspect of my CLL, is that I have had an ongoing Viral infection lasting 6 months on and off. I have had three courses of Antibiotics, which do not seem to be working very well.

I am aware that Viral Infections do not respond to Anti Biotics, but it seems my GP is erring on the side of caution in an effort to prevent Pneumonia

I have read that a Full; Blood Count will show information regarding any infections I might have, which normal Bloods, seemingly do not.

Can anyone clarify this for me, as at the moment I am very confused, and like most of CLL'rs I am always concerned about infections, and realise how important it is for us to avoid them when we can.

Kind regards. Ron.

[Newdawn Administrator]

Ron, I suspect you may be thinking of the Erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) and C-reactive protein (CRP) which are blood tests that can be used to check the levels of inflammation in your body. Raised readings on these tests indicate that there's inflammation going on somewhere - which could be due to anything from a mild viral infection to an autoimmune condition such as rheumatoid arthritis or even, more rarely, to cancer. It’s important to note that an increase in your WBC (white blood count) could indicate infection and this is a primary test of the FBC. This could be what your doctor is referring to.

A full blood count primarily includes tests for;

Red blood cells, which carry oxygen.

White blood cells, which fight infection.

Hemoglobin, the oxygen-carrying protein in red blood cells.

Hematocrit, the amount of red blood cells in the blood.

Platelets, which help blood to clot.

I’m not sure which country you’re from (probably U.K.) as your profile doesn’t indicate but doctors can order a range of supplementary tests as seen to be required. Mine always include liver and kidney function tests, bone profile and electrolytes. I also have immunoglobulin tests done periodically. Markers for inflammation are specific as described above, not part of an FBC and I think that’s what you’re asking for.

Regards,

Newdawn 

[Vindicatrix in reply to Newdawn]

Newdawn, thanks you so much for your very informative Post, I am seeing my GP on Thursday and I will put your points to her, as she has intimated that she was unaware of other tests which may be of value to CLL'rs. All the best. Ron

[Vindicatrix in reply to Newdawn]

Hi Newdawn, I saw my GP and passed on your information on additional Blood tests of value to us. She was very grateful and had assumed that a FBC included these. She took a sample of my blood with a request for the extra tests.

My X Ray came back within a few days, and I am to have a CT Scan, as my lymph nodes were obscured in the X Ray taken. I am seeing my Haematologist at an earlier appointment, than usual, and he will arrange the CT Scan privately. Thanks again for the very informative Post, it was really helpful. Best regards. Ron

[Newdawn Administrator in reply to Vindicatrix]

Pleased to hear it assisted you Ron. Best wishes for the outcome of your tests.

Newdawn