What does an HB blood test mean. What a general blood test shows: decoding, norm

The most common test used for the initial diagnosis of diseases is a complete blood count (CBC). Its wide range of indicators helps to identify a specific pathology, as well as to understand the general clinical picture of a person's condition.

General analysis blood will help determine the state of your body

What does a complete blood count show

UAC is an informative and uncomplicated way to study blood composition.

General clinical analysis is one of the mandatory laboratory tests that are assigned:

• before the patient is admitted to the hospital;
• before vaccinations against various kinds of diseases;
• in the case of prescribing a specific treatment (to exclude possible contraindications);
• before any surgical intervention.

Thanks to the KLA, specialists are able to identify a number of diseases, inflammatory processes and infectious pathologies.

Changes in clinical analysis markers may indicate the following conditions:

• a decrease in the concentration of hemoglobin in the blood (anemia or anemia, latent internal bleeding);
• pathologies of an infectious and inflammatory nature - bacterial pathologies, allergies, viral infections;
• disturbances in blood viscosity, destruction of red cells, abnormalities in normal blood circulation;
• oncological education, leukemia;
• chronic or acute inflammation - cirrhosis, tuberculosis, ulcerative colitis, renal failure, pneumonia, syphilis;
• hormonal disorders - diabetes mellitus, thyroid problems.

The main task of the UAC is to show the state of the blood and identify foci of inflammation in the body at the beginning of their development.

UAC detects tuberculosis and other infectious diseases

How to do a complete blood count

A general clinical blood test does not require special training.

It is enough to adhere to the doctor's recommendations a day before the analysis:

• minimize stress, avoid emotional stress;
• limit increased physical activity;
• do not drink alcoholic beverages;
• exclude fatty, spicy, salty foods, smoked foods and spices from food.

Do not drink alcohol before donating blood

The material is taken on an empty stomach. Doctors advise to refrain from eating 8-10 hours before manipulation. It is advisable not to smoke for 2–3 hours before donating blood. If the patient is using certain medications and it is not possible to stop taking them, the doctor should be notified.

Compliance with simple rules allows you to achieve reliable results of the UAC and identify possible deviations in the body in time.

How is blood donation carried out?

For a general analysis, capillary (from a finger) or venous blood is taken.

In the first case, the delivery procedure is as follows:

• the ring (less often the middle) finger is rubbed with alcohol;
• the beam is pierced to a depth of 3 mm with a special tool - a scarifier;
• biomaterial is taken with a pipette, and then it is poured into a thin glass flask (marked with a scale), and part of the blood is transferred to a glass slide.

After extracting the required amount of blood fluid, the puncture site is closed with an alcohol-coated cotton swab, which the patient firmly presses against the injured finger.

Usually the UAC is taken from the ring finger

Blood sampling from a vein is significantly different:

1. Before puncturing the veins in the elbow bend, the forearm is tightly squeezed with tourniquets.
2. The injection site is treated with alcohol and the needle is carefully inserted.
3. The biological material is drawn into a syringe or a special cone.
4. Part of the blood is removed from the tube and applied to a glass slide.

The manipulation is completed by treating the puncture site with alcohol (apply a cotton pad). It is recommended not to unbend the arm for some time (5-10 minutes) to avoid bruising in the injured area.

How much is the UAC done

A clinical blood test is a quick test. Results can be seen within 1-1.5 hours. During this time, the specialist manages to deduce the leukocyte formula (identify 5 types of leukocytes), study the erythrocyte sedimentation rate and make a complete deciphering of all indicators of the OAC.

What does a complete blood count include

A feature of clinical analysis is its wide range of blood parameters, which can be used to quickly determine pathological disorders in the body. UAC results are issued on a special form.

The detailed analysis includes all markers of biological material:

• blood cells (erythrocytes);
• hemoglobin;
• color indicator;
• platelets;
• reticulocytes;
• erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR);
• leukocytes, granulocytes and leukocyte formula (stab neutrophils, eosinophils, basophils, lymphocytes);
• plasma cells.

Normal indicators blood tests in adults and children

Having deciphered these indicators, the doctor will be able to draw an adequate conclusion about the person's condition and, if necessary, prescribe an additional examination. Correct interpretation of the analysis results allows for an accurate diagnosis and selection of an effective treatment.

Norms, designations and deviations in the UAC

A detailed clinical study or hematological analysis covers all blood segments and shows a real clinical picture.

Erythrocytes

The main part of the blood composition is occupied by erythrocytes (rbc). Red blood cells perform a transport function, contain hemoglobin.

Table "Norm of erythrocytes"

Sharp upward deviations from the norm can be a sign of serious violations in the work of internal organs.

Often provoke high level RBC:

• benign formations in the ovaries (polycystic);
• pathology of the kidneys, lungs, bronchi;
• oncological processes;
• cardiac pathology;
• a large amount of steroid hormones in the body (it happens with Cushing's syndrome) or as a result of taking hormonal drugs.

In a healthy person, an increase in performance may be associated with a change in climate (climbing mountains) or due to congenital heart disease.

If the red blood cells in the KLA are greatly reduced, we can talk about acute internal or external bleeding, anemia. A small number of blood cells in the plasma is also typical in late pregnancy.

Hemoglobin

Hemoglobin (called Hb or Hgb in Latin) is found in red blood cells. The substance carries oxygen from the lungs to all organs and removes carbon dioxide.

Table "Normal values \u200b\u200bof hemoglobin in the blood"

A sharp decrease in the level of Hb indicates serious deviations in the work of internal organs.

This condition can be caused by:

• severe blood loss;
• anemia;
• malignant tumors;
• heart failure;
• disorders of the kidneys, liver, lungs.

Heart pathologies, blood diseases, and dehydration can provoke an increase in hemoglobin.

Color index

The parameter indicates the amount of hemoglobin in one erythrocyte. The rate of such a marker is within 0.85–1.05. The value is calculated using a simple formula - (Hb * 3) / rbc (first 3 digits) - and does not require special equipment.

Depending on whether the color index (CP) has decreased or increased, experts determine the type of anemia:

• normochromic (0.85-1.15) - anemia with chronic impairment of kidney function, hypothyroidism;
• hypertension (CP above 1.15) - lack of folic acid or B12, polycythemia (the appearance of excess red blood cells);
• hypochromic (CP does not reach 0.85) - iron deficiency, anemia against the background of chronic diseases.

The color index of blood shows the amount of hemoglobin in the erythrocyte

Thanks to modern automatic analyzers, the need for manual calculation of the color index has disappeared. The equipment calculates the average Hb content in 1 blood cell.

Platelets

Platelets (designated PLT or P-LCR) are responsible for normal blood clotting. A sufficient amount of these substances are involved in the formation of blood clots, which prevents the development of bleeding.

Table "Reference (reference) values \u200b\u200bof platelets in the blood"

In women, minor deviations of this marker are explained by hormonal changes (menstruation, pregnancy) and are not a pathology.

A strong increase in platelets in the blood occurs against the background of conditions such as:

• surgical interventions, in particular, removing the spleen;
• chronic inflammation;
• polycythemia;
• hemolytic anemia.

There are frequent cases of a sharp drop in the level of plt in the blood.

This happens when:

• violation of the thyroid gland;
• anemia;
• immunological abnormalities;
• bacterial infections;
• liver diseases.

Long-term treatment with hormonal drugs or sudden changes in weather conditions can affect the platelet count.

Reticulocytes

Immature blood cells are also called reticulocytes (RTC). They are constantly present in the blood in case of a sharp decrease in "adult" erythrocytes. The calculation of such substances is in percent.

Table "Acceptable values \u200b\u200bof reticulocytes"

This indicator helps the doctor to regulate the treatment when it comes to therapy with folic acid, iron, vitamins B12.

A sharp increase in RTC may indicate oncology with tumor damage to the bone marrow, as well as pathologies associated with impaired protective functions of the body.

A lowered marker is evidence of anemia or acute renal dysfunction.

ESR

An important parameter in general clinical analysis is the rate of precipitation of erythrocytes. This marker begins to change 48-62 hours after the onset of the disease and can increase as much as possible at the peak of recovery.

Table "ESR rate in the patient's biological material"

An increase in the rate of sedimentation of red cells indicates the presence of acute infections and inflammations. A low level of the marker is a sign of a weakening of the body due to recent illnesses (colds, respiratory tract infections, inflammation) or a consequence of taking drugs.

In healthy women, deviations in ESR can occur as a result of menstruation or pregnancy, starting in the middle of the 2nd trimester.

Leukocytes

White blood cells act as a barrier against infections and viruses.

Leukocytes (WBC) can have a granular structure - granulocytes (GRAN) - and are subdivided into:

• neutrophils (neut);
• basophils (baso);
• eosinophils (eo).

With an expanded KLA, a leukocyte formula is used. It is used in the case of an increase in leukocytes and helps to determine at the expense of which type of increased WBC. In addition to neutrophils, basophils and eosinophils, it includes monocytes and lymphocytes (lymph). Each indicator has its own functions, which makes it possible to recognize this or that pathology. Often in clinical research blood basophils, monocytes and eosinophils are combined into one indicator - MXD (MID) for ease of decoding.

Table "Reference values \u200b\u200bof leukocytes, granulocytes, monocytes and lymphocytes"

Age group	Norm
	Leukocytes, thousand / μl (х10 to 3 degrees / μl)	The percentage of types of leukocytes,%
		Lymphocytes	Neutrophils	Basophils	Monocytes	Eosinophils
In children
from 1-3 days to 1 month	6–17,5	23–57	30–57	0–1	5–15	1–6
From 1 to 6 months		45–70	17–50		4–7	1–5
From 6 months to 1 year
1-6 years old	5,5–15,6	33–55	32–60		3–9	1–6
6-12 years old	4,51–13,52	30–47	41–67			1–5
12-15 years old	4,5–13,2	30–46	30–45
In adults
In men	4–9	19–38	48–79	0–1	3–1	1–6
Among women
During pregnancy	Up to 8	Up to 40	Up to 85

An increase in leukocytes occurs after vaccinations, surgical interventions, all sorts of injuries. A decrease in this indicator indicates infectious processes and may be a consequence of leukemia.

Among the diseases that can greatly increase the parameters of the leukocyte formula are:

• pathology of the kidneys, liver, lack of B12 - this is indicated by the so-called shift of the formula to the right;
• intoxication of the body, development of infections - shift of the leukocyte formula to the left.

In addition, an increase in the average cells of the leukoformula indicates a specific deviation. Enlarged monocytes indicate the presence of tumors and autoimmune diseases; eosinophils - helminthic invasions or allergic processes; basophils - viral pathologies, tuberculosis, smallpox; neutrophils and lymphocytes - the development of infections and bacteria.

The reasons for the low level of leukocytes are:

• weakening of immunity (decreased lymphocytes);
• anemia (the level of neutrophils has dropped);
• malignant tumor processes (low monocyte count);
• purulent infectious pathologies (eosinophils are reduced);
• cushing's syndrome (decreased basophils).

If changes have occurred in one of the indicators of the entire leukocyte formula or the MXD complex, deviations will appear in the total values \u200b\u200bof leukocytes. Therefore, in order to get to the true cause of the violation of the reference values, it is important to pay attention to all markers.

Plasma cells are an integral part of the body's defense system. When harmful microflora penetrates, they produce antibodies (immunoglobulins). Therefore, if a similar marker is present in the UAC, we are talking about the development of inflammation or infection. In a healthy person, plasma cells are absent in the blood.

Plasma cells produce antibodies to protect the body

Clinical blood test - the most prescribed analysis, it has a high information content and reliability, which allows you to identify many diseases in the early stages. The results largely depend on the preparation for the procedure. Do not try to figure out the values \u200b\u200bon the form yourself. This should be done exclusively by a doctor.

Qualitative interpretation of blood test results can only be carried out by a doctor. However, as in any specialty, there are good and bad specialists in medicine.

Of course, only an authoritative commission is capable of determining the level of a doctor's true qualifications, but we want to control the quality of the care provided, at least to develop trust in the doctor and his recommendations. In this article, we will tell you how to understand what a deviation in a particular parameter of a blood test means.

From the standard analysis form, you can find out what the normal blood test values \u200b\u200bshould be, but this is often not enough to determine the pathology. It is important to know exactly how the excess or fall of the indicator affects the physiology of the body. It is valuable to know under the influence of what factors the value of the analysis can rise or fall, in what combinations these changes become a characteristic syndrome - a group of typical symptoms of the disease. Let's try to deal with each indicator separately.

TABLE OF INDICATORS OF GENERAL BLOOD ANALYSIS WITH DESCRIPTION

• Red blood cells (RBC) - red blood cells, flattened cells without a nucleus, delivering oxygen to the tissues and removing the main "slag" from them, a metabolic product - carbon dioxide. A decrease in the level of red blood cells, as erythrocytes are also called, indicates a possible lack of oxygen in the tissues. If the number of red blood cells is increased, this may indicate a thickening of the blood and the danger of thrombosis. Standards for men: 4.3 - 6.2 x 10 12 / l; for women: 3.8 - 5.5 x 10 12 / l; for children: 3.8 - 5.5 x 10 12 / l.
• Hemoglobin (HGB, Hb) - the main protein of the erythrocyte, which has a high chemical affinity for oxygen and carbon dioxide. It is on it that molecules of a vital gas are transferred to the tissues of the body, and the main "slag" of the body - carbon dioxide, from the tissues. Its decrease directly indicates the presence of anemia, and its increase is a consequence of dehydration of the body or blood thickening. Norm: 120-140 g / l.
• Red Blood Cell Distribution Width (RDWc) - This is a percentage that determines how much the largest red blood cell in a blood sample differs from the smallest one. A difference of more than 15% indicates anisocytosis, a characteristic sign of anemia. Norm: 11,5 – 14,5% .
• Erythrocyte volume (MCV) - characteristic of the average size of erythrocytes and another factor in the assessment and differentiation of red blood cells, indicating anemia. A decrease in the indicator indicates iron deficiency or microcytic anemia, an increase indicates a deficiency of folic acid (it is also vitamin B12), which indicates the presence of megaloblastic anemia. Norm for an adult: 80 - 100 fl.
• Erythrocyte hemoglobin (MCH) - a factor, a decrease in which indicates iron deficiency anemia, an increase - on megaloblastic. Normal index: 26-35 gu (pg).
• Erythrocyte Hemoglobin Concentration (MCHC)- an extremely important and rather rare indicator that reveals hidden inflammatory processes in the body, malignant tumors, anemia in cases of its increase. A decrease may indicate an increased number of red blood cells. Norm: 30 - 370 g / l.
• Hematocrit (HCT) - an indicator that determines the volume of erythrocytes in the total blood volume. An increased hematocrit indicates an increase in the content of red blood cells (erythrocytosis), which occurs with dehydration. A decrease in hematocrit is another factor in the detection of anemia. It may also indicate an abnormal increase in the liquid fraction of blood. Standards have gender differences: for men normal hematocrit 39 – 49% , for women 35 – 45% , which is associated with monthly blood loss.
• Platelets (RLT) - the indicator reports the number in a liter of blood of cells responsible for the adhesion of erythrocytes into dense conglomerates that prevent blood from flowing out of the vessels when they are injured. An increase in the level of platelets is observed after removal of the spleen and in a number of other diseases. A decrease in the index indicates cirrhosis of the liver, idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura, aplastic anemia, or congenital blood diseases. Norm: 180 - 320 x 10 9 / l.
• Leukocytes (WBC) - the indicator determines the number of white blood cells in a liter of blood. Their main function is to protect the body from bacteria. An increase in the number of leukocytes indicates the onset and development of a bacterial attack in the body. The level of leukocytes decreases with blood diseases, some specific infections and in response to certain medications. Normal the indicator is considered: 4.0 - 9.0 x 10 9 / l.
• Granulocytes (GRA, GRAN) - the indicator indicates the number of specific cells of humoral immunity in a liter of blood. It increases during inflammation, the level of granulocytes decreases under the influence of certain drugs, with aplastic anemia and systemic lupus erythematosus. Normal: 1.2-6.8 x 10 9 / l (sometimes indicated in quantities per microliter, then the standard is 1.2-6.8 x 10 3 / μl).
• Monocytes (MON) Is a type of white blood cell, the number of which is calculated separately. These cells, which turn into macrophages, are very large blood cells whose job is to absorb and recycle bacteria and dead body cells. An increase in the number of monocytes is a characteristic sign of infectious diseases, rheumatoid arthritis and some blood diseases. A decrease in the number of monocytes often occurs under the influence of immunosuppressants - drugs that suppress immunity. Also, their decrease is observed after severe injuries, operations or starvation. Normal level : 0.1-0.7 x 10 9 / L (or 0.1-0.7 x 10 3 / μL); sometimes expressed as MON% 4 - 10%.
• Lymphocytes (LYM, LY%) Is another type of white blood cell present in normal blood. Lymphocyte specializes in the fight against viruses and some bacteria, and belongs to the cells of humoral immunity. The indicator is increasing in viral infections, radiation sickness, taking certain drugs, and blood diseases. Decreases with various immunodeficiencies characteristic of renal failure, taking immunosuppressants, prolonged fasting, overwork, HIV). The indicator is considered normal 1.2 - 3.0x10 9 / l (or 1.2-63.0 x 10 3 / μl); sometimes expressed like this LY% 25-40%.

These indicators are not limited to blood tests, but they are considered the main ones. By itself, each of them is not a sufficient basis for a diagnosis and is considered only in conjunction with other indicators, data from a physical examination (examination by a doctor) and other studies.

OTHER ANALYSIS DECODING OPTIONS

It is important to remember that in addition to the standard blood test data for adult men and women, there are also independent indicators and options norms for children, and at each age separately, for pregnant women, for the elderly.

Labtest SPb specialists will be happy to help you decipher the blood test and other laboratory parameters. We are waiting for you at eight medical centers in St. Petersburg. Come if you need help!

Sometimes doctors come across a blood test in English... It is not always possible to immediately determine what is the abbreviated name of the indicator for general clinical or biochemical analysis blood counts are generally accepted in Russia. Below we give an illustration with the interpretation of the generally accepted indicators of a blood test in English.

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This is necessary to exclude physiological factors affecting this analysis.

Decoding a general blood test (clinical blood test).

I. The main indicators of the clinical analysis of blood.

There are a number of indicators of a general blood test, assessing which you can make a first impression of the patient. Among them are:

1. RBC - Red Blood Cells

This indicator indicates the number of red blood cells contained in the blood. Units of measurement 10 * 12 / liter. Erythrocytes are blood cells containing hemoglobin. The main function of red blood cells is to carry oxygen. A normal erythrocyte has a biconcave shape. Thanks to this shape, the surface area of \u200b\u200bthe erythrocyte increases, and the binding of the erythrocyte to oxygen is facilitated. The average life cycle of an erythrocyte is 120 days.

RBC count rates (red blood cell norm):
Men: 4.5-5.5 * 10 12 / L
Women: 4.0-5.0 * 10 12 / l

An increase in the number of red blood cells in the blood is called erythrocytosis. Erythrocytosis are absolute and relative. Absolute erythrocytosis occurs when the number of erythrocytes increases. Relative erythrocytosis occurs when the blood thickens (decreases its volume).

A decreased number of red blood cells is called erythropenia. Erythropenia occurs, for example, with bleeding.

2.Hb (HGB) - Hemoglobin (hemoglobin)

This indicator characterizes the saturation of blood with hemoglobin. Hemoglobin is a pigment found in red blood cells. The main function of hemoglobin is to transport oxygen (O2) and carbon dioxide (CO2). Hemoglobin plays a vital role in human respiration. The hemoglobin norm varies between men and women, and normal hemoglobin levels differ at different ages. In men, hemoglobin levels are slightly higher than in women.

The units are gram / liter (g / l).

Hemoglobin norms (HGB norms):
Men: 120-170 g / l
Women: 110-155 g / l

A decrease in the level of hemoglobin (anemia) may indicate a person's bleeding, a lack of iron, vitamin B 12 in the body.

An increase in hemoglobin levels is much less common. May be associated with thickening of the blood (dehydration), erythrocytosis, in an athlete, residents of highlands.

3. WBC (Leu) - Leukocytes (White blood cells)

This indicator indicates the number of white blood cells (leukocytes) in the blood.

Units of measure WBC - * 10 9 / l

Normal indicators of the level of leukocytes fluctuate depending on the age of the person, and even from the region of his residence.

Average indicators of the norm WBC (leukocyte count): 6-10 * 10 9 / l.

The main function of leukocytes is to participate in the body's defense mechanisms. An increase in white blood cell count is called leukocytosis. Leukocytosis is accompanied by infectious diseases, leukemias, burns, malignant neoplasms and many other diseases.

A decrease in white blood cell counts is called leukopenia.

All leukocytes can be divided into 5 groups (leukocyte formula):

A. Neutrophils (norm 45-70%)

Promyelocytes
- Metamyelocytes
- Stab
- Segmented

Neutrophils are the largest fraction of leukocytes. Their main function is to fight microorganisms (infectious agents).

The number of neutrophils increases in acute inflammatory diseases. In this case, the so-called shift of the leukocyte formula to the left can occur. With such a shift, metamyelocytes appear in the blood, and with a sufficiently pronounced inflammatory process, promyelocytes.

B. Lymphocytes (Norm 19-37%)

Lymphocytes respond to the body's immune response. Among the lymphocytes, T and B lymphocytes are distinguished. The level of lymphocytes rises, for example, with a viral infection. The level of lymphocytes decreases with immunodeficiency.

B. Monocytes (Norm 3-11%)

Monocytes are the largest cells among leukocytes. Monocytes are the precursors of macrophages. The main function of monocytes / macrophages is phagocytosis.

D. Eosinophils (Norm 1-5%)

D. Basophils (Norm 0-1%)

The main function of basophils is to participate in an immediate hypersensitivity reaction.

4. PLT - Platelets

This indicator indicates the number of platelets in the blood.

PLT (platelet) measurement units - * 10 9 / l

Platelet count rate (PLT norm) - 150-400 * 10 9 / l

The main function of platelets is to participate in the blood coagulation system and in the processes of fibrinolysis. The number of platelets can increase, for example, in acute blood loss, after splenectomy, in myeloid leukemia. (Thrombositosis)

A decrease in platelet count is called thrombocytopenia. Thrombocytopenia can be either congenital (Fanconi syndrome, Wiskot-Aldrich syndrome, etc.) or acquired (medicinal, with splenomegaly, etc.).

5. HCT (Ht) - Hematocrit (Hematocrit)

This indicator characterizes the ratio of the total volume of all erythrocytes to the volume of plasma.

Measured as a percentage (%).

The norm of hematocrit (HCT) is 35-45%.

The hematocrit level increases with an increase in the number of erythrocytes (erythrocytosis), with an increase in the volume of erythrocytes.

Hematocrit (HCT) decreases with a decrease in the number of erythrocytes, a decrease in their volume, hemodelution (for example, with intensive infusion therapy with crystalloid solutions).

6. ESR - ESR (erythrocyte sedimentation rate)

This indicator indicates the rate of erythrocyte sedimentation.

Measurement units - mm / hour.

ESR rate (ESR): men 1-10 mm / hour
women 1-15 mm / hour

ESR is measured in a special test tube with a scale in millimeters. ESR level determine one hour after blood sampling by the height of the column consisting of erythrocytes. Usually, an increase in ESR indicates some kind of inflammatory process in the body.

7. Color Index (CPU)

This indicator indicates the degree of saturation of erythrocytes with hemoglobin.

CPU Rate (Color Index) - 0.9 - 1.1.

With CPU:
less than 0.9 - erythrocytes are hypochromic
0.9 - 1.1 - normochromic erythrocytes
more than 1.1 - hyperchromic erythrocytes

II. Additional indicators of a clinical blood test (complete blood count)

1. MCV - average erythrocyte volume.

The average volume of an erythrocyte is measured in femtoliters (fl).
MCV rate 80-100 fl.

If the volume of red blood cells fits within the normal range, then these red blood cells are normocytic. When MCV is less than 80 fl - microcytic erythrocytes, MCV more than 100 - macrocytic erythrocytes.

2. MCH - the average level of hemoglobin in one erythrocyte.

Measured in picograms (pg).
The rate of MCH is 27-34 pg.

This indicator is important for determining the type of anemia. If the indicator fits within the normal range, then the anemia is hypochromic. With MCH less than 27 pg - hypochromic anemia, MCH more than 34 - hyperchromic anemia.

3. MCHC - this indicator characterizes the ratio of the hemoglobin level in the erythrocyte to the volume of the erythrocyte.

The units of MCHC are g / l (g / l).
MCHC rate - 300-350 g / l

4. MPV - average platelet volume.

The average volume of platelets is measured in femtoliters (fl).
Standard MCV 7-10 fl.

5. PCT - thrombocyte.

This indicator characterizes the volume of all platelets in relation to the volume of whole blood.

Norm: 0.10-0.28.

6. PDW - This indicator characterizes the variability of platelets by volume.

7. RDW - erythrocyte distribution width (unit%)

8. RDW-SD - the width of the distribution of erythrocytes by volume, standard deviation.

9. RDW-CV - distribution width of erythrocytes by volume, coefficient of variation.

10. RDV - erythrocyte anisocytosis (norm 11.5-14.3%).

11. HGB / RBC - the average level of hemoglobin in the erythrocyte.

12 .P-LCR - large platelet ratio.

13. LYM% (LY%) - the relative amount of lymphocytes.
Units of measure LYM%:%.

14. LYM # (LY #) - the absolute number of lymphocytes.

15. MXD% - relative number of monocytes, basophils and eosinophils.
Units MXD%:%.

16. MXD # - absolute number of monocytes, basophils and eosinophils.

17. NEUT% (NE%) - the relative number of neutrophils.
Measurement units NEUT% (NE%):%.

18. NEUT # (NE #) - the absolute number of neutrophils.

19. MON% (MO%) - the relative number of monocytes
Units of measure MON% (MO%):%.

20. MON # (MO #) - absolute number of monocytes

21. EO% - the relative number of eosinophils.
Units of measurement for EO%:%.

22. EO # - the absolute number of eosinophils.

21. BA% - the relative number of basophils.
Units of measurement BA%:%.

22. BA # - the absolute number of basophils.

23. IMM% - the relative number of immature granulocytes.
Units of measurement IMM%:%.

24. IMM # \u200b\u200b- the absolute number of immature granulocytes.

25. ATL% - the relative amount of atypical lymphocytes.
Units of measurement ATL%:%.

26. ATL # - the absolute number of atypical lymphocytes.

27. GR% - the relative number of granulocytes.
GR% units:%.

28. GR # - the absolute number of granulocytes.

A general blood test, or as it is also abbreviated as KLA, is one of the basic studies that can detect pathologies at the initial stage of development. Often, the absence of external manifestations is not a guarantee of absolute health. Only a blood test will allow you to determine your condition with maximum accuracy.

Deciphering the analysis of the UAC is the key to the timely diagnosis of the disease and the appointment of effective therapy. It is quite difficult for people who are far from medicine and various terrifying terms to understand what their analysis means: is everything good or is it worth sounding the alarm. If it is still a long time before going to the doctor, and you have a transcript of the analysis in your hands, try to interpret it yourself using our recommendatory article.

Briefly about the analysis

The UAC analysis is often called the simplest one. The truth is, of course, there is, but do not forget that for all its seeming simplicity, this analysis is the most informational and covers the following "blood" parameters:

1. Erythrocyte count
2. Hemoglobin level
3. ESR (erythrocyte sedimentation rate)
4. Leukocytes and leukocyte formula
5. Hematocrit
6. Platelets
7. Biomaterial color
8. Lymphocytes

Each of these parameters is responsible for one or another function of the body, any failure in the system immediately affects the qualitative composition of the blood.

From a huge range of studies, this analysis does not require careful and rigorous preparation. It is enough, if possible, to donate blood on an empty stomach, provided that you are not a nursing baby or a pregnant woman.

Blood for analysis is taken from a finger, and therefore there can be no question of any serious blood loss.

Best of all, you don't have to painfully wait for results for several days. They are often ready by the evening of the same day you visit the lab.

It remains only to correctly decipher the results and you can sleep peacefully.

Remember that you can only approximate whether your data is in accordance with medical standards. You should not make your own diagnoses, much less prescribe treatment. Only your doctor can clearly and correctly interpret the test results.

As a rule, the doctor pays attention only to some indicators. If he is confused by something else, most likely, the patient will be sent for additional examination.

A clinical blood test is included in the list of mandatory examinations prescribed to a patient at the first sign of malaise.

What do your metrics mean?

A few years ago, the results were just a form in which all your parameters were written by the hand of a laboratory assistant. Today in medicine, almost everything is automated, so you will receive the answer in the form of a large printout. It will indicate your values \u200b\u200band reference values. This will help you quickly determine how normal your blood counts are.

In such printouts, all indicators are indicated by terms in English. For example, the number of red blood cells - RBC. We offer you interpretations with the analysis of each serum component separately.

Red blood cell count (RBC)

Erythrocytes are red blood cells that transport hemoglobin. Any disturbance in the work of these shaped elements may indicate anemia. Red blood cells remove carbon dioxide from the tissues, which is then removed through the lungs.

Erythrocytes are always at the head of a blood test such as a KLA. This is due to the fact that it is these cells that perform many other functions besides the ones listed above. If the qualitative or quantitative composition of erythrocytes is violated, hemoglobin automatically drops.

Table 1

In children, the indicators of red blood cells in the blood are somewhat different than in adults.

Hemoglobin (HGB): function and norm

What is hemoglobin, perhaps, everyone knows. A very active protein that is responsible for the transport of oxygen. If the level of hemoglobin in the body is disturbed, anemia occurs, which is fraught with serious consequences. And here elevated level hemoglobin can be a sign of dehydration or the red blood cell count is much higher than normal.

The table below shows the average medical values \u200b\u200bof the hemoglobin level in the blood of people of different ages.

Any deviation from the norm regarding hemoglobin requires additional monitoring. For this, an additional examination is prescribed to study the reasons for the decrease or increase in the level of hemoglobin.

Platelets (PLT)

Tests such as KLA pay a lot of attention to platelets. This is exactly the indicator that the doctor pays close attention to.

We have repeatedly said that platelets are blood cells in the form of oblong plates that are responsible for blood clotting. Changes in the values \u200b\u200bof these whey components make one alert.

Elevated platelet counts can be a symptom of myeloid leukemia, severe inflammation, or postoperative consequences.

In men and women, the rate of platelets in the blood is the same.

Leukocytes (WBC) and leukocyte formula

These white blood cells are considered to be the body's defenders against harmful viruses and bacteria. It is the increased level of leukocytes in the blood that is the first sign of a progressive inflammatory process. The sooner it is discovered, the sooner action will be taken.

Numerous studies of leukocytes and their properties have shown that the main reasons for the increase and decrease in the level of leukocytes are:

• anemia
• loss of lymph;
• viral infections.

table 2

Leukocytes act as a litmus paper: as soon as the virus enters the body, the white bodies immediately react to the enemy.

Erythrocyte sedimentation rate

This indicator directly depends on the age and gender of the patient. It is by the ESR that the doctor determines the presence of any pathological abnormalities.

• In men, the norm does not go beyond 2-19 mm / h
• In women - 2-15 mm / h

The norm in children is somewhat different from the "adult" indicators.

An increase in ESR may be associated with the following factors:

• inflammatory processes
• infectious diseases
• manifestation of anemia
• malignant neoplasms

At the same time, an increased level of erythrocyte sedimentation is considered quite normal in pregnant women.

Not only erythrocytes, platelets and leukocytes show the real state of the body. So, for example, the color indicator is considered the leading one in determining hypochromia, otherwise iron deficiency anemia.

In the table below, you will be able to see all the parameters combined together.

Modern technologies

Today, the medical industry is widely developed in terms of technology and "computerization". New-fashioned blood analyzers examine your biomaterial with maximum precision and give the perfect decoding.

More and more sites are offering a service called "online decryption". To do this, you will only need to go online, type in the required request and follow the instructions of the selected site.

Only at the same time it is important to understand that this painstaking work will be best done by a qualified specialist, to whom you will soon go for an appointment. In the meantime, there is time before the visit, and the excitement eats up from the inside, drive your parameters into the online program and get your hands on a preliminary diagnosis.

In any case, one should never lose composure and calmness. Even if your results are far from ideal, the doctor will prescribe a second examination and select the necessary therapy.

Be healthy and timely take a complete blood count for prevention. After all, it is always easier to cure a little disease than its big brother.

A general blood test (CBC) is the first study that begins the diagnosis of diseases or a preventive examination by a doctor as part of an annual medical examination. Without this simple but important test, it is impossible to objectively assess a person's health. The KLA is otherwise called a general clinical or simply a clinical blood test, but there is also a detailed version, which involves a detailed study of the leukocyte formula and is used in the case when the patient has signs of the disease.

Within the framework of the UAC, all three blood cells are assessed: erythrocytes, which are responsible for the respiration of organs and tissues, leukocytes - immunity fighters, and platelets - protectors from bleeding. However, the laboratory determines not only the number of these cells. Each type of blood cell includes several additional indicators by which the doctor can judge the most different aspects of the vital activity of a particular organism. Deciphering the results of a general blood test is the task of a competent doctor, therapist or pediatrician, because not only the numbers in the form matter, but also the combination of deviations from the norm with each other, as well as with the data obtained during the examination, survey and other diagnostic measures.

Blood for a general analysis in adult patients is taken either from a finger with the help, or from a vein, with a syringe. In infants, the CBC sometimes has to be taken from the earlobe or heel because the fingers are too small and the vein is difficult to get into. It is believed that venous blood is preferable for research - it contains more erythrocytes and hemoglobin than capillary blood. In addition, it is possible to take a lot of material from a vein at once, so that, if additional analyzes are necessary, not to send a person to the laboratory again.

Most hospitals and clinics are now equipped with an automatic analyzer. For him, the blood taken from the patient is immediately placed in a special container with an anticoagulant - vacutainer. The analyzer greatly simplifies and speeds up the process of obtaining the results of a general blood test, but if significant deviations from the norm in the indicators are found, even the smartest third-generation machine can make a calculation error. Therefore, each sample taken is still subject to mandatory application to a glass slide, staining and visual assessment under a microscope.

The obtained data are entered into and either sent to the attending physician, or handed over to the patient. If the study was carried out "in the old fashioned way", it will not be difficult to understand the records of the laboratory assistant, because there will be indicated the full names of all indicators and even their norms. But if a general blood test was performed on an automatic analyzer, the final document will be a printout with incomprehensible indices consisting of several Latin letters. Here you will probably need a decryption of the results, and we will provide all the necessary information: the norms of the general blood test for women, men and children of different ages in the form of tables and a list of possible reasons why the indicators are increased or decreased.

In the vastness of the network, you can find a lot of such tables of varying degrees of relevance, and the data in them may differ slightly. There is no need to worry about this, since clearly pronounced deviations from the standard figures have a diagnostic value. In addition, the results of a general blood test can only be judged in conjunction with the results of other examinations - it is impossible to establish the correct diagnosis by the KLA alone, and there is no need to try to do this.

How to prepare for a general blood test?

The following factors can affect the reliability of the results:

Food intake;

Prolonged sun exposure;

Nervous tension;

Drinking alcohol and smoking;

Taking certain medications;

Menstruation in women.

Therefore, if you do not want to get up early again, wait for your turn and donate blood, prepare for the analysis correctly, and this is very simple. Do not sunbathe on the beach the day before, do not overeat or drink strong drinks. Talk to your doctor about any medications you are taking regularly. If you are a woman, schedule a visit to the laboratory during the period of your cycle when there is no period. Do not eat or smoke anything in the morning. Half an hour before entering the office, if possible, sit down in the corridor, relax, do not fuss, do not run up the stairs.

Babies can get very nervous before donating blood simply because of the hospital atmosphere, and older children who already understand where they have come are often afraid of the procedure itself, syringes and scarifiers. Calm your child down, this is very important, because stress significantly affects the results of the CBC.

General blood test rates for women and men (table)

Abbreviation	Indicator and unit of measure	Men	Women
	10 cells in 12 degrees per 1 liter (10 12 / l)
Death of red blood cells (hemolysis) due to toxin poisoning or autoimmune pathologies; Congenital fermentopathies, affecting those enzymes that are involved in hematopoiesis; Poor diet, deficiency of proteins, minerals, amino acids, vitamins and other valuable food components. Erythrocytes are increased - reasons: Heart or lung failure; Erythremia (polycythemia); Pregnancy, adolescence and toddler age - the body needs more iron than usual; Acute and chronic infectious diseases; Systemic and autoimmune pathologies (, rheumatoid arthritis,); Blood diseases (leukemia, any anemia, thalassemia); Degenerative-dystrophic processes in the liver (cirrhosis, fatty hepatosis); Oncological diseases; Poisoning of the body of any etiology; Reception of some medicines; Increased hemoglobin - causes: A very active lifestyle, intense physical activity or sports, living in a mountainous area with thin clean air; Congenital heart and lung defects, functional failure of these organs; Pathology of the hematopoietic system (erythremia); Kidney disease (renal artery stenosis, tumor); Dysfunction of the adrenal glands; Dehydration of the body; Overuse of diuretics; Hematocrit (HCT) Hematocrit norm: Women - 36-43% Men - 44-52% Children - 37-44% Hematocrit is the ratio of red blood cell volume to total blood volume. To understand what indicator we are talking about, imagine a tube with a UAC sample, which was fixed in an upright position and given time to settle so that the red part settles to the bottom, and the plasma ends up at the top, since it weighs less red blood cells. So, the percentage between these two fractions is hematocrit. Only in the laboratory it is calculated much easier, accelerating the process of separating blood into erythrocytes and plasma using a centrifuge. A healthy person circulates about 4.5-5 liters of blood in the body. While it is in the bloodstream, all formed elements circulate freely in the plasma. If you take a general analysis in a dry test tube, without an anticoagulant, then a lump of fibrin, covered with erythrocytes, and a transparent yellowish serum, in which many indicators are not tracked correctly, are formed. That is why it is so important to place a UAC sample in a vacutainer, then the results of the study will be the most informative and accurate, and this concerns the hematocrit in the first place. Obviously, the HCT value directly depends on the size and number of red blood cells. In the decoding of the general blood test, this indicator is indicated as a percentage. If the hematocrit is lowered to 20-25%, this indicates anemia, and if it is raised to 65%, it indicates true or redistribution. Normal hematocrit in a general blood test: Lowered hematocrit - reasons: Second half of pregnancy; Excess water in the body, for example, due to an increase in the concentration of salt or proteins; Diseases of the blood, including malignant (leukemia, paraproteinemic hemoblastosis, myeloma, Hodgkin's lymphoma); Anemia of any genesis; Renal failure, all kidney pathologies that provoke fluid retention and edema; Extensive blood loss; Severe infectious diseases (typhus); Poisoning with salts of heavy metals, poisonous mushrooms; Treatment with cytostatics and anticancer drugs. Increased hematocrit - reasons: Stay in conditions of high altitudes and thin air; Dehydration of the body; Profuse diarrhea or violent vomiting; Intestinal obstruction; Polycythemia (erythremia, or Vakez's disease); Pulmonary insufficiency; "Blue" heart defects; Kidney tumors; Burn disease; Peritonitis. Reticulocytes (RET) The rate of reticulocytes: Women - 0.5-2.05% Men - 0.7-1.9% Children - 0.7-2.05% Reticulocytes are future red blood cells, that is, young, immature forms of red blood cells. They form in the bone marrow, passing through several stages of development, and the reticulocyte is the penultimate of them when the cell loses its nucleus. A similar indicator is always listed on the general blood test form, but determining its value is usually only done when there is a suspicion of a serious illness. The automatic analyzer calculates how many of 1000 erythrocytes in a person are immature, that is, reticulocytes, and expresses the result as a percentage. In newly born children, this number can reach 10%, because their hematopoietic system is busy with enhanced erythropoiesis, and this is the norm. But in adults, the number of reticulocytes among mature forms of blood cells in the normal state should not exceed 2%. Normal indicators of reticulocytes in a general blood test: Reticulocytes are elevated - reasons: Massive blood loss; Poisoning with hemolytic poisons; Taking certain medications (erythropoietin, Levodopa, antipyretics); Recovery from radiation or chemotherapy; Ascent to great heights; Pregnancy; Diseases of the hematopoietic system (polycythemia, thalassemia, hemolytic anemia); Acute hypoxia (oxygen starvation); Some infections, such as malaria; Taking some medicines (chloramphenicol, carbamazepine, sulfonamides); Folic acid and vitamin B12 deficiency; Alcoholism. Color Index (CPU) Color indicator norm: Women, men and children over 3 years old - 0.85-1.05 Babies under 3 years old - 0.75-0.95 The color or color index of blood is today an outdated diagnostic parameter that describes the degree of saturation of erythrocytes with hemoglobin. But it is outdated not at all because it is unnecessary, but only because automatic analyzers have replaced manual CPU detection almost everywhere. They give the same data in the form of one of the red blood cell indices, which we will discuss in more detail below. Accordingly, if in the decoding of the results of the UAC you see the abbreviation CP, then the study was carried out in an ordinary laboratory. The color index in the general blood test is calculated by the formula: CP \u003d (hemoglobin in g / l x 3) / the first three digits of the value of erythrocytes if the result is below the norm, we are talking about hypochromiaif higher - o hyperchromia. The most common occurrence is hypochromia, when there are many red blood cells, but they are half-empty, and this almost always indicates the presence of some type of anemia. But it is curious that normochromia in itself does not mean health - in a person, both the number of erythrocytes and the content of hemoglobin in them can be proportionally reduced, while the CP indicator will be normal. There is also a third variant of deviation, when there are enough or few red blood cells, but there is too much hemoglobin in them, then the CP will be increased, and there is a thickening of the blood, the reasons for which the doctor has to find out. Erythrocyte indices (MCV, MCH, MCHC, RDW) There are four important indicators provided by automatic blood analyzers when performing a general analysis. They are designated by Latin abbreviations, describe the state of erythrocytes and their functional abilities. The machine calculates erythrocyte indices based on the total number of blood cells, their hemoglobin content and the percentage of red blood to plasma (hematocrit). MCV (mean cell volume) This index shows the average volume of one erythrocyte, expressed in femtoliters. That is, the automatic analyzer takes all detected red blood cells - both small (microcytes), and correct (normocytes), and large (macrocytes) and giant (megalocytes) - adds their volumes together, and then divides this number by the number of cells taken. MCV rate: Women - 81-103 fl Men - 79-100 fl Children - 73-97 fl An abnormal increase in the MCV erythrocyte index is called macrocytosis, and the decrease is microcytosis. MCV can be elevated against the background of liver diseases, pathologies of the hematopoietic system, including cancer, deficiency of folic acid, vitamin B12 and associated anemias, body poisoning and prolonged alcohol abuse. A decrease in this indicator in the general blood test may indicate hypochromic, microcytic, iron deficiency or sideroblastic anemia, hyperthyroidism (excess production of hormones thyroid gland), hemoglobinopathy (violation of the structure of hemoglobin). RDW (red cell distribution width) This index characterizes the degree of red blood cell diversity, called anisocytosis for short and expressed as a percentage. Speaking about the previous indicator, we have listed the types of red blood cells. So, if a person has all red blood cells about the same size, the RDW index will be normal. If there are many giants and midgets in the erythrocyte population, the RDW will be increased. But these values \u200b\u200bcan only be considered in conjunction with the previous parameter, MCV, because if almost all red blood cells are small, or vice versa, large, RDW will also be normal, but this situation does not bring anything good. Red blood cells must be of the correct size and not very different from each other. RDW rate: Women, men and children over 6 months - 11.5-14% Babies up to six months - 15-18% MCH (mean cell hemoglobin) This index indicates the average hemoglobin content in one erythrocyte and is modern counterpart color (color) blood index. Measured by MCH in picograms. You can find out about the values \u200b\u200bof deviations from the norm above, where we have already examined the CPU. MCH rate: Women - 26-34 pg Men - 27-32 pg Children - 26-32 pg MCHC (mean cell hemoglobin concentration) This index complements the previous ones and describes the average concentration of red blood pigment in the blood, expressed in grams per liter. Correct decoding of erythrocyte indices in a general blood test is possible only taking into account all indices, separately these data are not very informative. Reduced level ICSU, for example, can indicate the presence of hypochromic anemia or thalassemia. And in principle, it cannot exceed the MCHS norm much, because if there were too much hemoglobin in the erythrocytes, hemolysis would begin (the cells would simply burst). MCHC rate: Women - 320-360 g / l Men - 320-370 g / l Children - 320-380 g / l Erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) Women - 2-15 mm / h, after 50 years - up to 20-30 mm / h, pregnant women - up to 40 m / h Men - 1-10 mm / h, after 50 years - up to 15-20 mm / h Children - 2-10 mm / h The erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) allows you to estimate how quickly the blood separates into plasma and the red part (remember the hematocrit). Previously, this indicator was called the erythrocyte sedimentation reaction (ESR). But the result is still indicated at the very end of the form and, as it were, completes the decoding of the general blood test. It is noteworthy that in women, red blood cells normally separate from the plasma and sink to the bottom of the tube about one and a half times faster than in men and children. And during periods of hormonal fluctuations (menstruation, pregnancy), ESR generally goes off scale. What does the erythrocyte sedimentation rate say, why is it so important to know? In a healthy person, erythrocyte membranes are negatively charged, so red blood cells repel each other and settle slowly. Due to some diseases, the situation changes: when the content of C-reactive protein, alpha and gamma globulins, fibrinogen increases in the blood, then the erythrocytes begin to stick together and form a kind of coin columns. Clumps of blood cells are heavier than single cells, so the clusters will sink to the bottom of the tube faster. But, for example, a decrease in the concentration of another protein in the blood, albumin, on the contrary, interferes with the adhesion of erythrocytes, and the ESR falls. The opposite situation is observed with violations electrolyte balance, then the red blood cells lose their negative charge, stop repelling and settle faster, that is, the ESR rises. Knowing all these patterns, coupled with the results of other examinations, the doctor can suggest a diagnosis. To determine the ESR, the laboratory assistant fills a thin tube with the patient's blood and sets it in the so-called Panchenko tripod for exactly one hour. There is a millimeter scale, looking at which you can find out the result after the allotted time. There is another, more modern Westergren method, which is used mainly by foreign laboratories. It allows you to calculate the ESR in half an hour, but the survey results will be identical if they are obtained correctly in both cases. ESR is measured in millimeters per hour. ESR increased - reasons: The period before menstruation in women; Pregnancy (ESR reaches a maximum 2-5 days after childbirth and can be 55 mm / h); Any infections of bacterial, viral, fungal origin (ARVI, tuberculosis); Inflammatory diseases of internal organs (cystitis, gastritis, endocarditis); Pathologies of the cardiovascular system (myocardial infarction, heart failure); Autoimmune diseases (systemic lupus erythematosus, rheumatoid arthritis, multiple sclerosis, hemorrhagic); Normal leukocyte counts in a general blood test: Leukocytes are increased - reasons: Natural physiological factors, for example, menstruation and the second half of pregnancy in women, active physical activity, food intake, the period after vaccination; Any purulent-inflammatory processes in the body (, sinusitis, bronchitis, peritonitis, initial stage); Absolutely all oncological diseases, including malignant lesions of the hematopoietic system; Injuries, burns, wounds, postoperative and postpartum period; Poisoning of the body with poisons, alcohol intoxication; The period of exacerbation of rheumatism; Exposure to certain medications (steroids, adrenaline); Cardiovascular pathology (heart attack, stroke); Allergic reaction; Hypoxia. Leukocytes are lowered - reasons: Hypoplasia or aplasia of the bone marrow, metastases of tumors into its structure, inhibition of its functions as a result of radiation or chemotherapy; Chronic infections of severe course, for example, tuberculosis in the last stages or AIDS; Some acute viral infections (influenza, measles, rubella, mononucleosis). For them, leukopenia for 3-4 days of illness is the norm; Collagenoses (systemic autoimmune pathologies of connective tissues, for example, multiple sclerosis, rheumatoid arthritis, lupus erythematosus, scleroderma); A number of diseases of the circulatory and lymphatic systems, including malignant lesions (plasmacytoma, lymphogranulomatosis, myelofibrosis, myelodysplastic syndrome); Enlargement of the spleen, primary and secondary hypersplenism (abnormal increase in the functional activity of the organ), condition after removal of the spleen; Sepsis (leukopenia is a very alarming diagnostic sign); Taking certain medications (NSAIDs, cytostatics, sulfonamides, antibiotics); Anaphylactic shock; Radiation sickness; Complications after blood transfusion; Severe stress. Leukocyte formula is the percentage of different types of leukocytes in the general population. This indicator can be found in the decoding of the results of a detailed blood test. The study of the leukocyte formula should be done when the total level of white blood cells is significantly higher or lower than normal. Because, for example, with infections, hemolytic pathologies and oncological diseases, the situation will be fundamentally different - a person will have more leukocytes, and some less. All white blood cells are divided into two large groups: granulocytes and agranulocytes. The first, granular leukocytes, are neutrophils, basophils and eosinophils - they have segmented nuclei. The second, devoid of granules, are monocytes and lymphocytes - they have one large nucleus. Granulocytes make up up to 75% of the total number of leukocytes found in peripheral blood in humans as part of a complete blood count. If we look at the table with the interpretation of the results, we will see that the most numerous representatives of the granular community are neutrophils, which are mature (segmented) and immature (stab). What is the left and right shift of the leukocyte count? A shift in the leukocyte count to the left is a situation in which young neutrophils are found in the patient's blood. And they should not be there, they are normally found only in the bone marrow. If young defenders of immunity are already produced in increased quantities and released into the peripheral blood in an immature form, it means that the body is affected by a large-scale infection (malaria, diphtheria, scarlet fever), there is an acute inflammatory process (sore throat, appendicitis), there was blood loss or even blood poisoning began. That is why the shift of the leukocyte formula to the left is of great diagnostic value. The opposite situation, when there are too many old neutrophils in the blood, and they already have five nuclei, happens when a person lives in a highly polluted area, is exposed to radiation, suffers from anemia, deficiency of folic acid or vitamin B12, chronic pulmonary disease , depletion of the body. This is what the shift of the leukocyte formula to the right can tell the doctor. Neutrophils (NEUT) Norm of neutrophils: Women and men - segmented: 47-72%, stab: 1-3% Children - segmented: 40-65%, stab: 1-5% Neutrophilic granulocytes play a major role in the fight against bacterial infections. They are constantly produced by the bone marrow - seven million new defenders of the immune system are released into the blood every minute. Neutrophils travel along the bloodstream for 8-48 hours, and then settle in tissues and organs, that is, they take up their combat post in order to be the first to rush to fight a dangerous invasion. Neutrophils are the most numerous among all leukocytes, and their main function is called phagocytosis. This is the process of devouring foreign cellular structures and pathogens of infectious diseases. One neutrophilic granulocyte can eat up to 30 harmful bacteria! When discussing the shift in the leukocyte formula, we have already mentioned that immature forms of neutrophils are called stab, and there may be a minimum number of them in a healthy person in the peripheral blood, and mature, segmented cells should make up the vast majority of leukocytes, but exceeding the norm is also undesirable. A condition in which there are too many neutrophils in a person's blood is called, and the opposite situation, when there are abnormally few of them, is called. Normal indicators of neutrophils in a general blood test: Elevated neutrophils - reasons: Bacterial infections and inflammatory diseases, especially sharp forms (angina, sinusitis, osteomyelitis, pneumonia, enterocolitis, pancreatitis, cystitis, bronchitis); Traumatic lesions of soft tissues and purulent processes (burns, wounds, abscesses, gangrene); Infarction of internal organs (heart, spleen, kidney); Oncological and autoimmune diseases; Treatment with immunostimulants; The period after vaccination. Neutrophils are lowered - reasons: Certain types of infectious diseases of bacterial and viral nature (influenza, measles, rubella, viral hepatitis,); Pathology of the hematopoietic system (leukemia, anemia); Thyrotoxicosis (poisoning of the body with thyroid hormones); In cancer patients - the period after radiation or chemotherapy; Taking certain medications (antibiotics, antiviral drugs); Basophils (BASO) Basophil norm: Women, men and children of any age - 0-1% Basophilic granulocytes are the rarest guests in decoding a general blood test. They may not be there at all, which is not an alarming symptom. Basophils are produced by the bone marrow, enter the bloodstream in a mature form and are there for only 24-48 hours. Their ability for amoeboid movement is very modest, and they phagocytize poorly, but this is not their task. Basophils have an S-shaped dense three-lobular nucleus, while the entire cell is filled with histamine, serotonin, prostaglandins, leukotrienes and other inflammatory mediators. So these immune cells are responsible for the development of immediate allergic reactions. This means that as long as an allergen or toxin does not interfere with a person, he does not really need basophils either. But as soon as a threat appears, these leukocytes begin to be vigorously released into the blood, and a laboratory assistant can detect them during a general analysis. The basophils present in the focus of inflammation carry out degranulation, that is, they burst and expel biologically active substances from themselves. Noticing this, other immune cells rush to the rescue and deploy the required type of activity, depending on what caused the "catastrophe". Important: an abnormally high level of basophils in the blood is called, and such a term as "" is rarely used in medical practice, because this type of white blood cell in a healthy person may not be detected at all in a blood test. Basophils are elevated - reasons: Oncological diseases, including malignant lesions of the hematopoietic and lymphatic systems (carcinomas, lymphomas, myeloid leukemia); Hypothyroidism and treatment with hormonal drugs that inhibit the functional activity of the thyroid gland; Infectious and inflammatory processes of any genesis (flu, tuberculosis, ulcerative colitis,); Hemolytic and iron deficiency anemia; Autoimmune pathologies (rheumatoid arthritis, vasculitis,); Diabetes; Food or drug allergies; Splenectomy. Eosinophils (EO) The rate of eosinophils: Women and men - 0.5-5% Children - 1-7% Eosinophils are capable of phagocytosis, like their counterparts - neutrophils, but they can only eat relatively small particles, that is, they act as microphages, not macrophages. The main useful property of eosinophils is the formation of humoral immunity, that is, protection associated with the destructive effect of antibodies on foreign cells, and not with their simple absorption, as neutrophils do. Too high concentration of eosinophils in the general blood test is called "", and the opposite state, when there are not enough of them, is "". Eosinophils are elevated - causes: Acute infectious diseases, including sexually transmitted diseases (scarlet fever, mononucleosis, syphilis,); Allergic reactions and related diseases (urticaria, vasomotor rhinitis, atopic dermatitis, bronchial asthma, anaphylactic shock, ); Pulmonary pathologies (sarcoidosis, fibrosing alveolitis, pleurisy); Oncological diseases of the hematopoietic and lymphatic systems (leukemia, lymphoma, lymphogranulomatosis); Malignant tumors of any localization; Autoimmune diseases (nodular periarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, lupus erythematosus, scleroderma); Taking certain medications (sulfonamides, penicillins, NSAIDs, aminophylline, diphenhydramine). Eosinophils are lowered - causes: The first stage of inflammatory processes and diseases requiring emergency surgical treatment (appendicitis, pancreatitis, gallstone disease, peritonitis); Pain shock; Blood poisoning (sepsis); Dysfunction of the thyroid gland and adrenal cortex; Poisoning with salts of heavy metals; Terminal stage of leukemia; Severe stress. Monocytes (MON) Monocyte rate: Women and men - 3-11% Children - 2-12% Monocytes are the largest immune cells in the human body (up to 20 microns), they belong to the group of agranulocytes, have an oval shape and bean-shaped non-segmented nucleus. In this they differ from their colleagues in the group, the lymphocytes, which are much smaller in size and have a rounded nucleus. Monocytes exhibit the greatest phagocytic activity. They leave the bone marrow immature, which allows them to stretch and absorb even foreign cells of equal size. For two to three days, monocytes circulate in the blood, and then either die through apoptosis, or settle in organs and tissues and become macrophages. They move very quickly, thanks to the outgrowths-pseudopodia. The macrophages follow the neutrophils to the inflammation focus, but arrive there with a slight delay, because their task includes "general cleaning" at the site of the accident elimination. Macrophages eat up crippled microbes, dead fellow leukocytes and the remains of the body's own damaged cells. A condition when a person has too many monocytes in a general blood test is called monocytosis, and if they are less than the norm, they talk about or, in another way, about monopenia. Monocytes are elevated - reasons: Infectious diseases bacterial, viral or fungal etiology (tuberculosis, sarcoidosis, ulcerative colitis, brucellosis, syphilis, various candidiasis); Convalescence period after any acute inflammatory process; Collagenoses (diseases connective tissuee.g. rheumatoid arthritis or periarthritis nodosa); Diseases of the lymphatic system (lymphogranulomatosis); Poisoning of the body, for example, phosphorus or tetrachloroethane. Monocytes are lowered - reasons: Purulent-inflammatory lesions of soft tissues and internal organs (abscesses, abscesses, phlegmon); The period immediately after childbirth or surgical intervention; Hairy cell leukemia; Aplastic anemia; Taking steroid hormones (prednisolone, dexamethasone). Lymphocytes (LYM) Lymphocyte count: Women and men - 20-40% Children - 25-50% Lymphocytes, although they are the second most abundant among all white blood cells, are considered a key figure in providing immune defense the human body. Lymphocytes belong to the group of agranulocytes, have one rounded nucleus and are relatively small in size. These cells mature in the bone marrow, and some of them are then still trained in the thymus gland (thymus). Lymphocytes are responsible for humoral (antibodies) and cellular (phagocytosis) immunity, as well as regulate the activity of other leukocytes and destroy the body's own cells that have become defective or dangerous. Lymphocytes live in different ways: some for only a month, others for a year, and still others for their whole life, carrying information about a meeting with an infectious agent (memory cells). There are three types of lymphocytes in total: B cells, T cells, and NK cells. The first of them recognize foreign structures and pathogens (antigens) by sight and produce proteins (antibodies) specifically aimed at combating them. The second, T-lymphocytes, are called so precisely because they are trained in the thymus, where they receive hereditary information about all the threats that have already encroached on the health of a particular organism. Moreover, T-killers kill enemy cells, T-helpers spur B-lymphocytes so that they produce antibodies, and T-suppressors, on the contrary, inhibit this process, if necessary. NK lymphocytes stand apart from the line of lymphocytes, as they monitor the body's own cells, their condition and behavior. If a cell has aged and lost its functionality, or even mutated and began to threaten health, as, for example, in the case of malignant tumors, NK lymphocytes must find it and destroy it. At the same time, it is the pathological, unjustified activity of these "body wipers" that underlies the development of autoimmune pathologies, when leukocytes cease to distinguish themselves from others and begin to eradicate certain types of tissues. Lymphocytes are increased - reasons: Viral infections (ARVI, influenza, rubella, mumps, chickenpox, herpes, mononucleosis, cytomegaly); Pathologies of the blood and lymphatic system (acute and chronic lymphocytic leukemia, lymphosarcoma, Franklin's disease, Waldenstrom's macroglobulinemia); Poisoning of the body with salts of heavy metals and other poisons, for example, carbon disulfide; Taking some medications (morphine, phenytoin, levodopa, valproic acid). Lowered lymphocytes - reasons: Severe infectious and inflammatory diseases ( bad sign, the body cannot cope); The period after undergoing radiation or chemotherapy; Terminal stage of oncological pathologies; Pancytopenia (failure of all types of blood cells); Aplastic anemia; Lymphogranulomatosis; Renal or hepatic impairment; Taking corticosteroids. Platelets are the third and last blood cells studied during a general blood test, but in terms of their importance for human health and vital activity, they are far from last. Platelets, or platelets, are tiny (2-4 microns) flattened, non-nuclear cells and an uneven surface. They are produced by the bone marrow and perform important functions: they form the primary plug at the sites of damage to blood vessels, provide their surface for the plasma coagulation reaction, and then release growth factors that promote wound healing and tissue regeneration. Total platelet count (PLT) Platelet count: Women and men - 180-320 10 9 / l Children - 160-400 10 9 / l A pronounced decrease in the content of platelets in the blood when deciphering the results of a general analysis indicates a high risk of prolonged non-stopping bleeding and extensive blood loss if a person is seriously injured. And a pathological increase in their number can lead to the formation of blood clots (thrombi) overlapping blood vessels, which is also very dangerous. Defective platelets are collectively referred to as "". It is of three types: a decrease in the number of cells (), an abnormal increase (thrombocytosis), and a violation of their functional activity (thrombasthenia). Platelets are elevated - reasons: Blood loss due to trauma, childbirth, or surgery; Iron-deficiency anemia; Acute inflammation or exacerbation chronic illnesseg rheumatism; Splenectomy; Oncological diseases; Erythremia; Exhaustion or extreme fatigue. Low platelets - reasons: Hemophilia (congenital bleeding disorder); Aplastic anemia; Systemic lupus erythematosus; Autoimmune thrombocytopenic purpura; Heart failure; Paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria; Evans syndrome and disseminated intravascular coagulation; Renal vein thrombosis; The period after blood transfusion; Prematurity in infants; Taking medications that thin the blood, such as aspirin. Platelet indices (MPV, PDW, PCT) The automatic analyzer calculates three platelet indices based on information about the total content of platelets, their sizes and volumes. These indicators in the decoding of a general blood test are indicated by abbreviations consisting of several Latin letters. MPV (mean platelet volume) This index characterizes the average volume of one platelet and is expressed in femtoliters. It is known that very young platelets are large in size, while they do not work efficiently enough, and old ones shrink and gradually lose their functionality. This means that if a person has an increased MPV, his blood clotting is impaired, and if it is low, bone marrow produces too few new platelets. MPV rate: Women and men - 7.0-10.0 fl Children - 7.4-10.4 fl PDW (platelet distribution width) This index reflects the degree of difference of platelets from each other in terms of volume, or their anisocytosis, and is measured as a percentage. We have already considered a similar indicator when we talked about erythrocytes. In the case of platelets, it is also very important to take into account the previous index, MPV, when assessing the PDW value, because this is the only way to objectively judge the condition and functionality of the platelets. PDW norm: Women and men - 15-17% Children - 10-17% PCT (platelet crit) This index is otherwise called thrombocritis, acts as an analogue of hematocrit, is also expressed as a percentage and describes the ratio of platelet volume to total blood volume. If the indicator is significantly lower than normal, this may indicate temporary problems with blood clotting or even hemophilia. If thrombocritis is higher than normal, a person is at risk of clotting and blockage of blood vessels. PCT norm: Women and men - 0.1-0.4% Education: Moscow Medical Institute. IM Sechenov, specialty - "General Medicine" in 1991, in 1993 "Occupational Diseases", in 1996 "Therapy".