Hemoglobin, Total Count, Differential Count

Function

This panel, often referred to as a subset of the Complete Blood Count (CBC), evaluates the primary components of blood. Hemoglobin (Hb) is the iron-containing protein in red blood cells responsible for transporting oxygen from the lungs to the body's tissues and returning carbon dioxide. The Total Leucocyte Count (TLC) measures the total number of white blood cells (WBCs), which are the primary defense mechanism of the immune system. The Differential Count (DLC) further breaks down the WBCs into five types: Neutrophils, Lymphocytes, Monocytes, Eosinophils, and Basophils.

Why it is Ordered

Physicians order this test to screen for a wide range of conditions, including anemia, infection, inflammation, and leukemia. It is a standard part of routine health check-ups and is essential for monitoring patients undergoing treatments like chemotherapy or those with chronic inflammatory diseases.

Associated Conditions

• Anemia: Indicated by low hemoglobin levels, which can be caused by iron deficiency, vitamin B12 deficiency, or chronic blood loss.
• Leukocytosis: A high TLC, often signaling an acute infection (bacterial or viral) or physical stress.
• Leukopenia: A low TLC, which may result from bone marrow failure, autoimmune diseases, or certain medications.
• Eosinophilia: An elevation in eosinophils, commonly associated with allergic reactions or parasitic infections.
• Neutrophilia: High neutrophil counts, typically pointing toward acute bacterial infections.