Interpretation of Full Blood Count Parameters in Health and Disease

The full blood count (FBC) or Complete Blood Count (CBC) is one of the most frequently requested haematological investigation performed in patients. It has the potential, when interpreted carefully and in relation to the clinical history can potentially yield very useful clinical information that assist in diagnosis and management of patients by clinicians. It usually comprises 13–19 parameters. The aim of this review was to highlight the evidenced based interpretation of full blood count parameters in health and disease. PubMed, Google Scholar, Science Direct and African Journals Online search was performed in January 2020 and studies on the components of a normal full blood count in health and several disease states was included in the review. Search keywords included full blood count and its clinically significance. FBC is a readily available test whose clinical utility is far reaching and can potentially monitor effect of drug treatment, pre-operative intervention and in the diagnosis of diseases such as anaemia, cancer, clotting issues, infection and immune system disorder. The parameters included in a normal FBC are sometimes under-utilized as most clinicians and nurses rely more on three of the components (HB, WBC and platelet count). FBC determination using either the 3 of 5-part differential haematology analyzer should be based on SOP using certified reagents, validated equipment and quality controlled (IQC and EQA) testing in a Good Laboratory Practice compliant laboratory. All clinically significant analyzer generated flags must be investigated. All results must be technically and clinically validated. Laboratories must identify findings and flags that should warrant the examination of a peripheral blood film as well as results that need to be communicated promptly to the requesting clinician to facilitate the need for immediate remedial action and effective management of patients. It is vital that result is not reviewed in isolation but holistically looking at trends over time and taking into consideration known diagnosis.