HematologyInternal Medicine

Hemoglobin, TC, DC, ESR & Platelet Count

Normal Range
Hb: 13-17 g/dL, WBC: 4k-11k/uL, ESR: <20 mm/hr
Sample Type
Whole Blood
Fasting
No
Unit
Various

Function

This panel is a comprehensive hematological assessment. It includes Hemoglobin (Hb) for oxygen transport capacity, Total Count (TC) of White Blood Cells for immune status, Differential Count (DC) to identify specific types of immune cells (neutrophils, lymphocytes, etc.), Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate (ESR) as a non-specific marker of inflammation, and Platelet Count for clotting capability.

Why it is Ordered

It is one of the most common screening panels used to evaluate general health. It helps in diagnosing anemia, identifying bacterial or viral infections, monitoring inflammatory conditions, and screening for bleeding disorders. It is also used pre-operatively and during routine physicals.

Associated Conditions

  • Anemia: Low Hemoglobin levels.
  • Infection/Leukemia: Abnormal Total and Differential counts (e.g., Neutrophilia in bacterial infection).
  • Inflammatory Diseases: Elevated ESR is common in Rheumatoid Arthritis, Lupus, or systemic infections.
  • Thrombocytopenia: Low platelets, which may lead to bruising or bleeding risks.

Panel Components

This test is a profile comprising the following specific markers:

Basophils (DC)
%
Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate (ESR)
mm/hr
Total Leukocyte Count (TC)
cells/cu.mm
Neutrophils (DC)
%
Platelet Count
cells/mcL
Hemoglobin
g/dL
Monocytes (DC)
%
Lymphocytes (DC)
%
Eosinophils (DC)
%

Why Context Matters

Results can be skewed by minor factors. ESR is highly sensitive but non-specific; it can be elevated due to pregnancy, menstruation, or even the tilt of the collection tube. Platelet counts can appear falsely low due to 'platelet clumping' in EDTA tubes. Dehydration can cause 'relative polycythemia' (falsely high Hb), while overhydration can dilute the sample, showing lower Hb levels.

Lab ranges are statistical averages, not biological laws. "Normal" for a 20-year-old male isn't normal for a 60-year-old female.

Clinical References

Source-of-truth databases and clinical guidelines for Hemoglobin, TC, DC, ESR & Platelet Count:

Research & Guidelines

Related Indicators

Activated Partial Thromboplastin Time (APTT)

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Blood Cell Morphology

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AML Comboquest 9

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DR

Medically Reviewed by Dr. Binoy Babu, MBBS

Board Certified Doctor • 10+ Years Clinical Experience

Dr. Babu is a practicing physician dedicated to empowering patients with clear, actionable medical information. He founded 2opi to bridge the gap between complex lab reports and patient understanding, ensuring everyone has access to a reliable second opinion.

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