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Full blood count ( FBC ) parameters : guide to interpretation

The table provides an overview of key parameters in a Full Blood Count (FBC). Each parameter is accompanied by its clinical significance and a brief comment on its physiological role. This quick guide aims to assist primary care clinicians and medical students in interpreting FBC results for diagnostic and monitoring purposes.

ParameterUK Reference Range (Adults)Clinical SignificanceComment on Physiology
Haemoglobin (Hb)M: 130-180 g/L
F: 115-165 g/L
Indicates oxygen-carrying capacity of bloodEssential for oxygen transport to tissues
Total White Cell Count (WBC)4.0-11.0 x 10^9/LOverall measure of immune functionCoordinates immune response; varies with age, stress, infection
Platelet Count150-400 x 10^9/LEvaluates clotting potentialEssential for hemostasis and wound healing
Red Blood Cell (RBC) CountM: 4.5-6.5 x 10^12/L
F: 3.8-5.8 x 10^12/L
Overall measure of red cells in bloodCritical for tissue oxygenation
Haematocrit (HCT)M: 0.39-0.50
F: 0.36-0.46
Percentage of blood volume that is red cellsMeasures the proportion of the whole blood volume occupied by RBCs: expressed as a percentage
Mean Corpuscular Volume (MCV)80-100 fLAverage size of a red blood cellReflects erythrocyte size; helps classify anaemias
Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin (MCH)27-33 pgThe average amount of Hb per...

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