Complete Blood Count (CBC – 28 parameters) Test in Dubai
Comprehensive analysis of red blood cells, white blood cells, platelets, hemoglobin, and hematocrit levels. Professional laboratory testing with 4-6 hours results. Available at our Deira clinic or with convenient 24/7 home collection across Dubai.
A Complete Blood Count (CBC), also called a full blood count (FBC), is one of the most frequently ordered laboratory tests worldwide. This comprehensive blood test measures the number and characteristics of your red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets – providing crucial insights into your overall health and detecting conditions ranging from anemia and infections to leukemia and bleeding disorders. At Zain Cura Medical Center in Dubai's Al Ghurair Centre, Deira, we perform CBC testing with the same clinical accuracy as major international hospitals, delivering results in just 4-6 hours. Our DHA-licensed laboratory uses state-of-the-art automated analyzers and professional phlebotomists to ensure accurate, reliable results you can trust.
Whether you're scheduling a routine health check or your doctor has recommended testing, understanding what this test measures and what your results mean is essential for informed health decisions.
Quick Facts
Essential information about the Complete Blood Count (CBC – 28 parameters) test at a glance
What is a Complete Blood Count (CBC) Test?
A Complete Blood Count is a simple blood test that counts and analyzes three types of blood cells: red blood cells (RBCs), white blood cells (WBCs), and platelets. Think of it as a "report card" for your blood – it tells doctors whether you have the right number and type of blood cells, and whether they're functioning properly.
The CBC actually measures 28+ parameters, providing your doctor with comprehensive blood profile data to make informed health decisions.
Red Blood Cells (RBCs)
These cells carry oxygen throughout your body. Too few RBCs (anemia) means your tissues don't get enough oxygen, causing fatigue and weakness. Too many RBCs (polycythemia) can cause blood clots.
White Blood Cells (WBCs)
Your body's defense system. These cells fight infections. High WBC counts might indicate infection or bone marrow disorders; low counts suggest immune system problems.
Platelets
Microscopic cell fragments that help your blood clot. Low platelet counts can cause excessive bleeding; high counts increase clot risk.
What Does This Test Detect?
Detects anemia, infections, leukemia, and other blood disorders
Why Your Doctor Orders This Test
The Complete Blood Count (CBC – 28 parameters) is commonly ordered to screen for, diagnose, or monitor medical conditions. Your doctor may recommend this test as part of routine health screening, to investigate symptoms, or to track your response to treatment.
Why Get a Complete Blood Count Test?
Detecting Blood Disorders
A CBC is essential for diagnosing blood-related conditions. Anemia (low RBC count) causes fatigue, shortness of breath, and dizziness. Elevated WBC counts suggest infections or potentially serious conditions like leukemia. Platelet abnormalities can indicate bleeding disorders or clotting problems.
General Health Screening
Many people get CBC as part of routine annual health checks or executive health packages. It's included in most comprehensive wellness panels because it reveals so much health information with just one simple blood draw.
Monitoring Chronic Conditions
Patients with diabetes, autoimmune diseases, or those on chemotherapy often get regular CBC tests to monitor how their condition or treatment affects blood cell counts.
Pre-Surgery Assessment
Before major surgery, hospitals typically order CBC to ensure patients have adequate blood cells and clotting ability.
When Should You Get This Test?
Consider getting tested if you have these symptoms or risk factors
Symptoms to Watch For
- •Persistent fatigue not relieved by rest
- •Shortness of breath during normal activities
- •Frequent infections or colds (more than 6 yearly)
- •Fever that won't break after 3-5 days
- •Easy bruising or prolonged bleeding from minor cuts
- •Pale skin, pale palms, or pale eyelid linings
- •Unexplained weight loss
- •Swollen lymph nodes (neck, underarms, groin)
Risk Factors
- •Family history of blood disorders
- •Chronic diseases (diabetes, autoimmune disease)
- •Current chemotherapy or radiation treatment
- •Recent major surgery or significant blood loss
- •Chronic kidney disease
- •Heavy menstrual bleeding (women)
Recommended Testing Frequency
Annual health screening or every 1-2 years as part of routine executive health package
As recommended by your doctor (often quarterly or semi-annually)
Doctors often order CBC before starting medications that affect blood cells
Usually 1-2 weeks after surgery to ensure normal recovery
Normal Reference Ranges
These ranges are general guidelines. Your results should be interpreted by your doctor in the context of your individual health status and medical history.
Important: Normal ranges may vary based on age, sex, and individual factors. Always consult your healthcare provider for personalized interpretation of your results.
How to Prepare for Your Test
Follow these simple preparation guidelines for accurate results
Pre-Test Preparation
No fasting required. Normal daily activities permitted.
What to Do
- • Bring valid ID (Emirates ID, passport, or driver's license)
- • Wear comfortable, short-sleeved clothing
- • Stay hydrated (drink water before test)
- • Arrive 10 minutes early for check-in
- • List current medications and supplements
What to Avoid
- • Excessive caffeine immediately before
- • Strenuous exercise 24 hours before
- • Don't skip prescribed medications without consulting doctor
- • Avoid stress and anxiety before blood draw
Related Laboratory Tests
Tests often ordered together for comprehensive health assessment
C-Reactive Protein (CRP)
Marker of inflammation in the body, used to assess infection and inflammatory conditions
High Sensitive CRP (hs-CRP)
More sensitive measurement of inflammation, particularly useful for cardiovascular risk assessment
ESR (Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate)
Non-specific test measuring blood cell sedimentation rate to assess inflammation
LDH (Lactate Dehydrogenase)
Enzyme present in many tissues; elevated levels indicate tissue damage or disease
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about the Complete Blood Count (CBC – 28 parameters) test
Is a Complete Blood Count Test Painful?
No. The blood draw involves a small needle prick similar to a mosquito bite. Most patients experience minimal discomfort. If you have needle anxiety, inform your phlebotomist – we can recline you and have you look away during collection.
How Long Does the Test Take?
The actual blood collection takes 2-3 minutes. Results are available in 4-6 hours. Total time from arrival to result delivery is about 30 minutes at our clinic.
Can I Eat Before the Test?
Yes, absolutely. Unlike some tests, CBC doesn't require fasting. You can eat and drink normally. In fact, staying hydrated before the test makes blood collection easier.
How Accurate Are CBC Results?
Modern automated hematology analyzers (like ours at Zain Cura) are highly accurate, analyzing millions of cells electronically. Accuracy rate exceeds 99.8%. We also perform quality control checks regularly.
Do I Need a Doctor's Referral?
No. You can walk in without a doctor's referral. Many patients order CBC themselves for routine health screening, or your doctor can order it.
What If My Results Are Abnormal?
Abnormal CBC results require medical interpretation. Schedule a consultation with your doctor within 24-48 hours. Don't self-diagnose based on results alone. Many abnormalities have simple explanations and are easily treated.
How Often Should I Get a CBC?
For healthy adults: annually as part of routine screening. For patients with chronic conditions: as recommended by your doctor (often quarterly). Before surgery: usually 1-2 weeks before.
Can Medications Affect CBC Results?
Some medications can affect blood cell counts (antibiotics, chemotherapy, immunosuppressants). Inform your phlebotomist about current medications.
Is CBC Safe for Pregnant Women?
Yes, absolutely safe. Pregnant women should get CBC to screen for anemia (very common in pregnancy). Our lab uses different reference ranges for pregnant patients.
Is Home Collection Available?
Yes! Home collection is available 24/7 across Dubai with no extra charges. Use our smart assistant to book and confirm pricing.
Recommended Test Packages
- CBC
- Comprehensive Metabolic Panel
- Lipid Profile
- TSH
- Iron Studies