🔍 What is a Full Blood Count (FBC)?

A Full Blood Count is a common and comprehensive blood test that measures different types of cells in your blood. It gives doctors a broad overview of your general health and helps detect a variety of conditions, from infections to anemia and even more serious illnesses.

🧪 What does it measure?

An FBC looks at three main types of blood cells:

• Red Blood Cells (RBC)
  • Carry oxygen around the body
  • Low levels can indicate anaemia
  • Key markers: Haemoglobin, Haematocrit
     
• White Blood Cells (WBC)
   
  • Help fight infections
  • High levels could mean an infection or inflammation
  • Also includes breakdown into subtypes (like neutrophils, lymphocytes)
     
• Platelets
  • Help with blood clotting
  • Low levels can cause bleeding, high levels may increase clot risk
    
     
• Other Markers
  • MCV, MCH, MCHC – Help classify the type of anaemia
  • RDW – Looks at the variation in red cell size
    
     

❓ Why might I need this test?

People might get a Full Blood Count if they:

• Feel tired or fatigued without explanation
• Have frequent infections
• Experience unusual bruising or bleeding
• Are undergoing a routine health check-up
• Have chronic health conditions like autoimmune disease or cancer
• Need pre-operative screening
  
   

⏱️ How is it done?

• A small sample of blood is taken, usually from a vein in your arm
• The test takes just a few minutes
• Results are typically available within 1–2 days
  
   

📊 What do the results mean?

Results can help detect:

• Anaemia (iron, B12 or folate deficiency)
• Infections (viral or bacterial)
• Leukaemia or bone marrow disorders
• Chronic inflammation or autoimmune diseases
• Clotting problems
  
   

Your results are best interpreted in the context of your symptoms and medical history.

💷 Typical cost (UK private clinics):

• Around £30–£70, depending on the provider
   
• Often included in general health or Wellman/Wellwoman panels
   

🩻 Paired well with:

• Vitamin B12 & Iron tests – for deeper anaemia investigation
• Thyroid function tests – for energy-related symptoms
• Liver/Kidney function tests – for general health screening
  
   

📚 References:

1. NHS. Full Blood Count (FBC). NHS.uk.
2. Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust. Understanding your FBC.
3. Patient.info. Full Blood Count Test.
4. Bupa UK. Blood Tests: What They Show.
5. London Medical Laboratory. FBC Test Explanation.