What does l mean in a blood test. Complete blood count - interpretation of the results and norms. Causes of an increase in platelets

A complete blood count, or as it is also called KLA for short, is one of the basic studies that allows you to 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 KLA is the key to the timely diagnosis of the disease and the appointment of effective therapy. It is rather difficult for people who are far from medicine and various frightening terms to understand what their analysis means: is everything fine or is it worth sounding the alarm. If it’s still a long time before going to the doctor, and you have a transcript of the analysis on hand, try to interpret it yourself using our recommendation article.

Briefly about the analysis

Often the analysis of the KLA is called the simplest. Of course, there is truth in this, but do not forget that for all its apparent simplicity, this analysis is the most informative and covers the following “blood” parameters:

  1. RBC 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 a particular function of the body, any failure in the system immediately affects the quality of the blood.

Of the vast 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 an infant or a pregnant woman.

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

Well, the best part is that you don't have to painfully wait for the results for several days. They are often ready by the evening of the 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 complies with medical standards. Do not self-diagnose yourself, much less prescribe treatment. Only your doctor can clearly and competently interpret the results of the study.

As a rule, the doctor pays attention only to some indicators. If something else bothers him, most likely, the patient will be sent for an additional examination.

A clinical blood test is included in the list of mandatory studies assigned to the patient at the first sign of malaise.

What do your scores mean

A few years ago, the results were a form in which all your parameters were entered 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 show your values ​​and reference values. This will help you quickly determine how normal your tests are.

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

RBC rate (RBC)

Erythrocytes are red blood cells that transport hemoglobin. Any disruption in the work of these uniform 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 such a blood test as a KLA. This is due to the fact that these cells perform many other functions besides those listed above. If the qualitative or quantitative composition of red blood cells is disturbed, hemoglobin automatically falls.

Table 1

In children, the indicators of erythrocytes 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 transporting oxygen. When the level of hemoglobin in the body is disturbed, anemia occurs, which is fraught with serious consequences. But an elevated hemoglobin level can be a sign of dehydration, or the number of red blood cells is much higher than normal.

The table below shows the average medical values ​​of hemoglobin levels in the blood of people of different ages.

Any deviation from the norm regarding hemoglobin requires additional control. For this, an additional examination is prescribed to study the causes of a decrease or increase in hemoglobin levels.

Platelets (PLT)

Tests such as CBCs focus on 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 performance of these whey components are alarming.

Elevated platelet levels may be a symptom of myelogenous leukemia, severe inflammation, or a postoperative period.

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 the body's defense against harmful viruses and bacteria. It is the elevated level of leukocytes in the blood that is the first sign of a progressive inflammatory process. The sooner it is detected, 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
  • lymph loss;
  • viral infections.

table 2

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

Erythrocyte sedimentation rate

This indicator directly depends on the age and gender of the patient. It is by 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 due to 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. For example, the color indicator is considered the leading one in determining hypochromia, otherwise iron deficiency anemia.

In the table below, you can see all the parameters combined together.

Modern technologies

Today, the medical industry is widely developed in terms of technology and "computing". Newfangled blood analyzers examine your biomaterial with maximum accuracy and give the perfect transcript.

More and more sites are offering a service called "online transcription". To do this, you will just need to enter the Internet, type the necessary request and follow the instructions of the selected site.


Hematocrit is an indicator that reflects how much blood is occupied by red blood cells. The hematocrit is usually expressed as a percentage: for example, a hematocrit (HCT) of 39% means that 39% of the blood volume is represented by red blood cells. Elevated hematocrit occurs with erythrocytosis (increased number of red blood cells in the blood), as well as with dehydration. A decrease in hematocrit indicates anemia (a decrease in the level of red blood cells in the blood), or an increase in the amount of the liquid part of the blood.


The mean volume of a red blood cell allows the doctor to obtain information about the size of the red blood cell. Mean cell volume (MCV) is expressed in femtoliters (fl) or cubic micrometers (µm3). Red blood cells with a small average volume are found in microcytic anemia, iron deficiency anemia, etc. Red blood cells with an increased average volume are found in megaloblastic anemia (anemia that develops when there is a deficiency in the body of vitamin B12 or folic acid).


Platelets are small platelets of blood that are involved in the formation of a blood clot and prevent blood loss when blood vessels are damaged. An increase in the level of platelets in the blood occurs in some blood diseases, as well as after operations, after the removal of the spleen. A decrease in the level of platelets occurs in some congenital blood diseases, aplastic anemia (disruption of the bone marrow that produces blood cells), idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura (destruction of platelets due to increased activity of the immune system), cirrhosis of the liver, etc.


A lymphocyte is a type of white blood cell that is responsible for developing immunity and fighting germs and viruses. The number of lymphocytes in different analyzes can be presented as an absolute number (how many lymphocytes were found), or as a percentage (what percentage of the total number of leukocytes are lymphocytes). The absolute number of lymphocytes is usually denoted LYM# or LYM. The percentage of lymphocytes is referred to as LYM% or LY%. An increase in the number of lymphocytes (lymphocytosis) occurs in some infectious diseases (rubella, influenza, toxoplasmosis, infectious mononucleosis, viral hepatitis, etc.), as well as in blood diseases (chronic lymphocytic leukemia, etc.). A decrease in the number of lymphocytes (lymphopenia) occurs with severe chronic diseases, AIDS, kidney failure, taking certain drugs that suppress the immune system (corticosteroids, etc.).


Granulocytes are white blood cells that contain granules (granular white blood cells). Granulocytes are represented by 3 types of cells: neutrophils, eosinophils and basophils. These cells are involved in the fight against infections, in inflammatory and allergic reactions. The number of granulocytes in various analyzes can be expressed in absolute terms (GRA#) and as a percentage of the total number of leukocytes (GRA%).


Granulocytes are usually elevated when there is inflammation in the body. A decrease in the level of granulocytes occurs with aplastic anemia (loss of the ability of the bone marrow to produce blood cells), after taking certain medications, as well as with systemic lupus erythematosus (connective tissue disease), etc.


Monocytes are leukocytes that, once in the vessels, soon exit them into the surrounding tissues, where they turn into macrophages (macrophages are cells that absorb and digest bacteria and dead cells of the body). The number of monocytes in various analyzes can be expressed in absolute terms (MON#) and as a percentage of the total number of leukocytes (MON%). An increased content of monocytes occurs in some infectious diseases (tuberculosis, infectious mononucleosis, syphilis, etc.), rheumatoid arthritis, and blood diseases. A decrease in the level of monocytes occurs after major operations, taking drugs that suppress the immune system (corticosteroids, etc.).


The erythrocyte sedimentation rate is an indicator that indirectly reflects the content of proteins in the blood plasma. Elevated ESR indicates possible inflammation in the body due to increased levels of inflammatory proteins in the blood. In addition, an increase in ESR occurs with anemia, malignant tumors, etc. A decrease in ESR is rare and indicates an increased content of red blood cells in the blood (erythrocytosis), or other blood diseases.


It should be noted that some laboratories indicate other standards in the test results, which is due to the presence of several methods for calculating indicators. In such cases, the interpretation of the results of a general blood test is carried out according to specified standards.

In addition to deciphering a blood test, you can also make transcripts of urine and feces tests.

From the article, the reader will learn what the general blood test shows, in what cases it is prescribed, what indicators the general analysis includes. How to prepare for the analysis procedure, and what factors can affect the results. Learn the normal values, how they change in various conditions and diseases of the body.

A blood test is an important step in the examination and diagnosis. Hematopoietic organs are susceptible to physiological and pathological influences. They change the picture of the blood.

As a result, the general analysis (GAC) is the most popular method of analysis, which helps the doctor to judge the general condition of the body. For a detailed examination, in addition to the KLA, a biochemical analysis and a general urine test (OAM) are prescribed. about what it shows general Analysis of urine, a separate article has already been written. If you are interested, you can read.

What does a general blood test show, detailed, main indicators

Let's find out what a general blood test shows, why it is taken. A general hematological blood test is an important diagnostic criterion that reflects the response of the hematopoietic system to the action of physiological and pathological factors.

KLA is of great importance in establishing the diagnosis, especially in diseases of the hematopoietic organs. UAC covers the study of such indicators:

  • hemoglobin level (Hb)
  • erythrocytes
  • leukocytes
  • platelets
  • color indicator
  • leuco formula calculation
  • erythrocyte sedimentation rate

If necessary, examine the clotting time, the duration of bleeding. In many laboratories, the analysis is carried out on hematological automatic analyzers. They define up to 36 parameters at once.

Hemoglobin, functions and clinical significance

Hb - blood pigment, is the core component of the erythrocyte. Its role is to transport O 2 from the lungs to organs, tissues and remove carbon dioxide.

The level of hemoglobin performs the main function in the diagnosis of anemia of various etiologies. At the same time, his performance is declining.

An increase in Hb concentration occurs with erythremia, symptomatic erythrocytosis, congenital heart disease, cardiopulmonary insufficiency. An increase in Hb is combined with an increase in the number of red blood cells.
In acute blood loss, there is a significant decrease in Hb to 50 g/l. The minimum pigment content in the blood that is compatible with life is 10 g/l.

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Red blood cells, physiological role in the body

Erythrocytes occupy the main share in the mass of blood cells, they contain hemoglobin in their composition. The main function is the transfer of O 2 with the assistance of Hb. In addition, erythrocytes are involved in:

  • in the absorption of lipids, amino acids, toxins
  • in enzymatic processes
  • when regulating the acid-base balance of the body
  • in the regulation of the ionic equilibrium of the plasma

A decrease in the number of red blood cells is one of the signs of anemia. In addition to anemia, red blood cells decrease with an increase in blood volume in the bloodstream, for example during pregnancy.

An increase in the number of red blood cells (erythrocytosis) is characteristic of erythremia. CBC in newborns will show erythrocytosis during the first 3 days of life. In adults, erythrocytosis is observed during starvation, profuse sweating, climbing to a height.

Leukocytes their physiological role in the body

The number of leukocytes (L) in the bloodstream is an important diagnostic criterion. They perform important functions - protective, trophic and others. An increase in the number of leukocytes over 10 × 10 9 /l (G / l) is called leukocytosis.

Most often, leukocytosis occurs as a result of acute infections generated by cocci. Therefore, the KLA will definitely show inflammation, pneumonia, blood cancer. Leukocytosis is typical for:

  1. leukemia of various course, malignant tumors
  2. inflammatory, purulent, acute infectious processes
  3. uremia
  4. myocardial infarction
  5. toxic poisoning, severe blood loss, shock conditions, extensive burns

KLA in acute appendicitis will show an increase in the amount of L. Leukocytosis is characteristic of tubal pregnancy, rupture of the spleen, and acute gout.

A decrease in the number of leukocytes below 3.5 g / l is called leukopenia. The tendency to leukopenia occurs among the healthy population and is often hereditary, but may depend on the influence of external environmental factors (solar radiation).

Sometimes occurs during fasting, with a decrease in tone, in a dream. Leukopenia is typical for:

  1. infections caused by viruses and bacteria - typhoid fever, endocarditis, salmonellosis, measles, influenza, rubella
  2. lupus erythematosus
  3. hemoblastoses
  4. and children (read more by clicking on the link)

The appearance of leukopenia is associated with the inhibition of cell maturation and the release of L from the hematopoietic organs and their redistribution in the vascular bed.

The diagnostic value of counting the leukoformula is enormous in many pathological conditions. It can be used to judge the severity of the situation, the effectiveness of the prescribed therapy.

Leukocytes include cells of the lymphocytic, monocytic, granulocytic series. To find out their number, use counting. leukocyte formula -% content of different types of leukocytes:

  • stab and segmented neutrophils
  • eosinophils
  • monocytes
  • basophils
  • lymphocytes

Neutrophils carry out bactericidal and virucidal functions. They are capable of phagocytosis in capillaries and are involved in all stages of inflammation. Therefore, an increase in the number of neutrophils will show inflammation in the body. Neutrophilia (above 8×10 9 /l) is present in any suppurative process, sepsis.

Eosinophils have a detoxifying effect. In large quantities, they are found in tissue fluid, intestinal mucosa, and skin.

Eosinophilia accompanies connective tissue diseases - polyarteritis, rheumatoid arthritis, tumors, especially with metastases and necrosis.

Eosinopenia (decrease) is typical for an infectious-toxic process in the postoperative period. And indicates the severity of the condition.

Basophils have anticoagulant properties. Involved in inflammatory and allergic processes. Basophilia occurs when an allergic reaction to food, drugs, foreign protein. With oncology - chronic myeloid leukemia, myelofibrosis, erythremia, lymphogranulomatosis.

Characteristic for ulcerative colitis, estrogen treatment. Basophilia is likely during ovulation and pregnancy, with lung cancer, anemia of unknown origin, iron deficiency.

Monocytes have the ability to phagocytosis. They actively phagocytize (absorb) cell debris, small foreign bodies, malaria Plasmodium, Mycobacterium tuberculosis.

With tuberculosis, monocytosis is observed in the blood - an increase in the number of monocytes. Monocytopenia is observed with hematopoietic hypoplasia.

Lymphocytes important for immunity. In addition, lymphocytes take part in the fight against infection, and also carry out a trophic function at the sites of inflammation and wounds. Lymphocytosis is possible with infectious mononucleosis, tuberculosis, syphilis.

Platelets - physiological role, clinical significance

The formed element of blood is involved in the processes of hemostasis. thrombocytosis(an increase in the number tr) can be observed under physiological conditions after physical exertion, due to the excitation of the nervous system. Thrombocytosis occurs when:

  1. muscle injury injuries
  2. burns, asphyxia, after blood loss and removal of the spleen
  3. leukemia - erythremia, myeloid leukemia

Thrombocytopenia(decrease in the number tr) in physiological conditions occurs during menstrual blood loss in women, after histamine. In pathological conditions, thrombocytopenia occurs when:

In this case, the autoimmune factor is of great importance - the formation of antibodies to one's platelets.

Erythrocyte sedimentation rate

An increase in ESR can occur under physiological conditions - during pregnancy, during fasting when taking dry food, after vaccination, when taking certain medications.

The change in ESR in pathology has diagnostic and prognostic meaning. And it serves as an indicator of the effectiveness of the ongoing healing. ESR increases with:

  • infections and inflammation
  • purulent processes
  • rheumatism
  • kidney disease, liver disease including at)
  • myocardial infarction, malignant tumors, anemia

Reduced ESR values ​​occur during processes accompanied by blood clotting. Sometimes observed with neuroses, epilepsy, anaphylactic shock, with erythremia.

Total volume of red blood cells (hematocrit)

Hematocrit (Ht) is the ratio of plasma to formed elements. An increase in Ht occurs with heart defects and is accompanied by cyanosis, with erythrocytosis.

A decrease in hematocrit is typical for various anemias in the second half of pregnancy.

color index

Color or color indicator - the relative amount of Hb in the erythrocyte. A decrease in this value occurs with iron deficiency.

An increase in the color index is observed with anemia, deficiency of Vit B 12 (cyanocobolamine), folic acid. It accompanies cirrhosis of the liver, thyroid disease, occurs during therapy with cytostatics, taking contraceptives, and using anticonvulsants.

Normal laboratory blood tests

An important step in evaluating the result of the CBC is to establish the difference between the pathology and the norm. To do this, it is necessary to define normal indicators - these are indicators found in healthy people. They may vary by gender.

Index Normal values
men women
Hemoglobin, Hb 125 - 170 g/l 105 – 155 g/l
Erythrocytes, Er 3.8 – 5.5 T/L 3.5 - 4.9 T/l
Leukocytes, L 3.8 – 9.5 G/L
Hematocrit 40 – 50 % 38 – 47 %
ESR 1 – 10 mm/h 2 – 12 mm/h
Platelets, tr 150 – 380×10 9 /l

segmented neutrophils

Neutrophils are stab

Lymphocytes

Monocytes

Eosinophils

Basophils

When evaluating the results of the tests, it must be remembered that deviations from the norm do not necessarily indicate the presence of a disease.

When interpreting the results, it is necessary to find out if the deviations are physiological in nature. We should not forget about the variability of the norm associated with personal characteristics.

When interpreting the results, many factors must be taken into account: age, gender, comorbidities, medication, living conditions, and much more. Therefore, this should be done by a doctor.

Place of blood sampling for research: from a vein or from a finger

The place and technique of taking biological material has a significant impact on the results of laboratory studies. In medical practice, blood is often used from capillaries. Usually it is taken from the pulp of the ring fingers, in difficult cases - from the earlobe.

The puncture is made on the side, where the capillary network is thicker. The blood must flow by gravity so that there is no admixture of tissue fluid, which will lead to a distortion of the result. For the study of capillary blood should be taken:

  1. with extensive burns of the body, especially the hands
  2. if small or inaccessible veins, with obesity
  3. in patients prone to thrombosis
  4. in newborns

Currently, blood from the venous bed is considered the best material for general clinical analysis. This is due to the use of hematological analyzers. With their help, KLA is carried out in our time. They are designed and standardized for the processing of venous blood.

When taking blood from a vein, you also need to follow some rules. The best place to take blood is the cubital vein. It is not necessary to apply a tourniquet for more than 2 minutes, this will lead to an increase in cellular elements in the bloodstream.

When evaluating test results, it is necessary to take into account a number of factors that affect them. Let's name the most significant:

  • intake and composition of food, diet
  • physical stress has a transient and lasting effect on results
  • nervous stress increases leukocytosis
  • medications
  • body position during the procedure of taking
  • place and technique for taking blood
  • time and conditions of delivery of the biomaterial to the laboratory

Among other factors influencing the results, the age of the patient, gender, and ambient temperature make sense. Harmful inclinations - smoking and alcohol - have a great influence. They lead to an increase in the concentration of Hb and the number of red blood cells. The number of leukocytes, on the contrary, decreases.

Basic rules for preparing for the UAC

  1. in agreement with the doctor, cancel the medicines one day before the test
  2. do not donate blood after physiotherapy, X-ray examination
  3. do not donate blood immediately after mental and physical exertion
  4. 1 hour before the procedure, refrain from smoking
  5. refuse fatty and spicy foods, alcohol 48 hours before the procedure
  6. go to bed at the usual time, get up no later than one hour before blood sampling

Repeated examinations should be carried out at the same hours, since the morphological composition of the blood is prone to daily fluctuations.
I suggest watching a video of how a general blood test is done:

Do not neglect the rules of preparation for the research procedure, and you will not be afraid of false results!

So, now the reader knows what the general blood test shows, the purpose of its appointment, what indicators the general analysis includes. How to prepare for the analysis procedure, and what factors affect the results. We learned the normal values, how they change in various conditions and diseases of the body.

Do you have any questions? Ask in the comments.

The survey method under consideration is one of the most popular. Thanks to a general blood test, it is possible to establish the cause of certain symptoms, determine the type of disease of the blood, internal organs, and choose an adequate treatment. For the correct interpretation of this analysis, you need to know the norm of blood parameters.

How to take a general blood test and what is needed for this?

There are no complex, strict regulations regarding this testing, but there are some rules:

  • For this examination, capillary blood is used, which is taken from a finger. Less commonly, according to the doctor's instructions, blood from a vein may be used.
  • The analysis is carried out in the morning. The patient is forbidden to eat food, water 4 hours before taking a blood sample.
  • The main medical supplies that are used for taking blood are a scarifier, cotton wool, and alcohol.

The algorithm for taking capillary blood is as follows:

  • The finger from which blood sampling is planned is treated with alcohol. For better blood sampling, it is useful to rub your finger first to ensure a better blood flow to it.
  • A scarifier is used to pierce the skin on the finger.
  • Blood is collected using a small pipette. The sample is placed in a sterile tube.

Deciphering the general blood test of a child and an adult, the norms in the tables and the reasons for the deviation from the norms.

Everyone in their life went through such a painless procedure as donating blood from a finger. But for the majority, the result remains only a set of numbers written down on paper. Explanations of this analysis will enable each patient to navigate the deviations that are detected in the blood, the reasons that caused them.

Complete blood count - the content of hemoglobin in the blood.

This blood component is a protein through which oxygen enters all internal organs / systems. The amount of this component is calculated in grams, which is in 1 liter of blood.

  • Norms of hemoglobin content in the blood in children and adults.

This indicator will depend on the age of the patient, his gender:


  • Causes of high and low hemoglobin levels in children and adults.

Elevated hemoglobin levels are observed with:

  1. Diagnosing.
  2. Diseases of the kidneys.
  3. The patient has pathologies associated with hematopoiesis.

A low hemoglobin level may be the result of:

  1. Vitamin/iron deficiency.
  2. Significant blood loss.
  3. Blood cancer.
  4. anemia.
  5. Rigid diet that led to exhaustion.

Erythrocytes in the general blood test.

Inside the components under consideration contains hemoglobin. The main purpose of erythrocytes is to carry oxygen to the internal organs. Often in the table, instead of the unit of measurement of erythrocytes, you can see the abbreviation RBC.

  • The norm of the content of erythrocytes in the blood in children and adults.

The given indicator must be multiplied by 1012. The result will be equal to the number of red blood cells that are present in 1 liter. blood:

  • In newborns on the 1st day of life: not less than 4.3, not more than 7.6.
  • In infants up to a month, this figure decreases: 3.8-5.6.
  • 1-6 months: 3.5 to 4.8.
  • Up to 1 year: not higher than 4.9, not lower than 3.6.
  • 1 to 6 years: 3.5 to 4.5.
  • In the age range of 7-12 years, the lower limit of the permissible norm increases to 4.7.
  • In adolescence (up to the age of 15): 3.6-5.1.
  • From the age of 16 (men): not higher than 5.1, not lower than 4.
  • From 16 years old (women): from 3.7 to 4.7.
  • Causes of increased and decreased levels of red blood cells in children and adults.

The factors that provoke an increase / decrease in the number of red blood cells in the blood are similar to those that cause an increase / decrease in hemoglobin.

The width of the distribution of erythrocytes in the general blood test.

This parameter directly depends on the size of erythrocytes: if a large number of erythrocytes of different sizes are detected in a taken blood sample, one can speak of a high width of the distribution of erythrocytes.

  • The norm of the width of the distribution of erythrocytes in the blood in children and adults.

This indicator is identical for children, adults, and can vary from 11.5 to 14.5%.

  • Causes of increased and decreased levels of the width of the distribution of erythrocytes in children and adults.

A deviation from the norm of the indicator in question may occur against the background of malnutrition, anemia, and dehydration of the body.

The average volume of erythrocytes in the general blood test.

This blood parameter helps to obtain information about the size of red blood cells. It is measured in femtoliters / micrometers cubed. This volume is calculated using a simple formula, for which you need to know the percentage of hematocrit, the number of red blood cells.

  • The width of the distribution of erythrocytes is the norm in children and adults.

Regardless of the age, gender of the patient, normally the considered blood parameter (MCV) should not be higher than 95 fl, not lower than 80 fl.

  • Causes of increased and decreased indicators of the width of the distribution of erythrocytes.

Lowering the rate often occurs due to a lack of iron.

Increase in indicator MCV indicates a deficiency of certain micronutrients.

The average content of hemoglobin in an erythrocyte is a complete blood count, norms and deviations.

The resulting indicator (MCH) displays the amount of hemoglobin that is contained inside the 1st erythrocyte. It is calculated according to a certain formula, for which you need to know the amount of hemoglobin + erythrocytes. The specified parameter is measured in picograms. The MCH norm is the same for men, women, children: 24-33 pg.

Lowering the rate often occurs due to iron deficiency anemia.

Increase in indicator MCH is the result of a folic acid/vitamin B12 deficiency.

The average concentration of hemoglobin in an erythrocyte is a complete blood count, norms and deviations.

The parameter in question (MCHC) is obtained by mathematical calculations using hemoglobin+hematocrit. The unit of measure is %. The norm of hemoglobin content in an erythrocyte varies within 30-38%.

There are several factors that can cause a decrease in the indicator in relation to the specified norm:

  1. Diseases of the blood.
  2. iron deficiency.

The probability of an increase in the indicator under consideration is scanty.

Erythrocyte sedimentation rate in the general blood test.

This indicator (ESR) is obtained by settling the taken blood sample. It is determined by the number, shape of red blood cells, measured in mm / h. The process under consideration is also influenced by the amount of proteins in the plasma.

  • The rate of erythrocyte sedimentation in the blood in children and adults.

This parameter does not change much with age, but there are differences:

  • 1st day of life: 2-4.
  • In babies up to a month: from 4 to 8.
  • In the period up to 6 months. the ESR norm is 4-10.
  • From 1 to 12 years: not higher than 12, not lower than 4.
  • From 13 to 15 years, the lower limit of the norm increases to 15.
  • From 16 years old (men): 1-10.
  • From 16 years old (women): 2-15.
  • Causes of increased and decreased erythrocyte sedimentation rate in children and adults.

Deviation from the norm upwards is a consequence of such phenomena:

  • body infection.
  • Pregnancy.
  • Anemia.

A decrease in ESR is the result of blood diseases.

Leukocytes in the general blood test.

These are living cells of the body that are produced in the lymph nodes, bone marrow, perform a controlling function. There are several varieties of blood components under consideration: neutrophils, monocytes, eosinophils, lymphocytes, basophils.

  • The norm of leukocytes in the blood in children and adults.

The result obtained will correspond to the percentage of leukocytes that are normally present in 1 liter of blood:

  • On the 1st day of life: from 8.5 to 24.5.
  • In babies up to 1 month: from 6.6 to 13.8.
  • In the first six months, the norm should not exceed 12.5, it cannot be less than 5.5.
  • In the age range from 1 month. up to 1 year: 6 to 12% per liter of blood.
  • From 1 to 6 years: no more than 12, no less than 5.
  • At the age of 7-12 years: from 4.4 to 10.
  • In adolescence (after the age of 15): not higher than 9.5, not lower than 4.4.
  • From 16 years old (men/women): from 4 to 9.
  • Causes of increased and decreased levels of leukocytes in children and adults.

An increase in the rate can occur due to the influence of several factors:

  • Inflammatory phenomena in the body. This includes the postoperative period, ENT diseases, diseases of the lower respiratory tract, damage to the skin as a result of trauma / burns. With cancer, general blood testing will also show an elevated level of leukocytes.
  • Pregnancy.
  • Menstruation.
  • Vaccination.

The level of leukocytes can be reduced under the influence of such phenomena:

  • Vitamin B12 deficiency.
  • Diseases of the blood.
  • A certain group of infectious diseases: malaria, viral hepatitis, typhoid fever.
  • The influence of radiation.
  • Systemic lupus erythematosus.
  • Taking certain medications.
  • Conditions in which immunodeficiency occurs.

Platelets in the general blood test.

These are small non-nuclear cells, inside which microelements are contained, which ensure blood clotting.

  • The norm of platelets in the blood in children and adults.

The given indicator must be multiplied by 109 .. The result will correspond to the number of cells that are normally present in 1 liter of blood:

  • 1st day after birth: 180-490.
  • In children from 1 month. up to 1 year: not higher than 400, not lower than 180.
  • From 1 to 6 years: 160-390.
  • In the age range of 7-12 years: not higher than 380, not lower than 160.
  • In adolescence (up to 15 years old inclusive): from 160 to 360.
  • From 16 years old (men / women): from 180 to 320.
  • Causes of high and low platelets in children and adults.

An increase in the norm can occur under the influence of several phenomena:

  • Inflammatory reactions (including the postoperative period).
  • Oncological diseases.
  • Significant blood loss.
  • Diseases of the blood.

A low level of platelets is observed against the background of the following pathologies:

  • Defects in the work of the bone marrow.
  • Cirrhosis of the liver.
  • Blood transfusion.
  • Disorders associated with the functioning of the immune system.
  • Diseases of the blood.

Hematocrit in the general blood test.

By means of this parameter, the volume of erythrocytes is compared with the volume of blood. The unit of measure for hematocrit is percent.

  • Hematocrit in the blood and its norm in children and adults.

With age, this parameter undergoes certain changes:

  • On the 1st day after birth: 40-66%.
  • In children up to a month: from 34 to 55%.
  • In infants in the age range of 1-6 months: 32-43%.
  • From 1 to 9 years: 34-41%.
  • From 9 to 15 years: 34-45%.
  • From 16 years old (women): no more than 45%, no less than 35%.
  • From 16 years old (men): 39-49%.
  • Low and high hematocrit in children and adults.

An increase in the considered blood parameter occurs when:

  • Heart/lung failure.
  • Dehydration.
  • Some blood diseases.

A decrease in hematocrit may indicate the following phenomena:

  • III-IV trimester of pregnancy.
  • Anemia.
  • Renal failure.

Granulocytes in the general blood test.

This blood parameter is represented by several groups of cells: basophils, neutrophils, eosinophils. These granule bodies are indispensable participants in the fight against infections and microbes.

  • The norm of granulocytes in the blood in children and adults.

There are two options for presenting this blood parameter:

  • Absolute score. It will be referred to as GRA# on the blood test result tables. In this context, the rate of granulocytes can vary from 1.2 to 6.8 * 109 cells per 1 liter.
  • The percentage of granulocytes to leukocytes. Has the designation GRA%. The norm should not be more than 72%, less than 47%.
  • Causes of an increase and decrease in granulocytes in the blood in children and adults.

With inflammatory phenomena in the body, an increase in granulocytes in the blood occurs.

A decrease in the number of considered elements in the blood can occur for several reasons:

  1. Malfunctions in the bone marrow, which are associated with the production of blood cells.
  2. The patient is diagnosed with systemic lupus erythematosus.
  3. Taking certain medications.

Monocytes in the general blood test.

Important components of the immune system. Their duties include the recognition of microorganisms dangerous to the body, the fight against inflammatory foci. Their number is limited.

  • The norm of monocytes in the blood in children and adults.

The given indicator (MON%) displays the percentage of monocytes in the total number of leukocytes:

  • Toddlers up to 1 year inclusive: 2-12%.
  • From 1 to 15 years: not more than 10%, not less than 2%.
  • From 16 years old (women/men): from 2 to 9%.
  • Causes of an increase and decrease in monocytes in the blood in children and adults.

The increase in the rate can be due to several factors:

The decrease in monocytes occurs against the background of the following phenomena:

  • Childbirth.
  • Postoperative rehabilitation.
  • Taking anticancer drugs.
  • Inflammatory-purulent phenomena.

Neutrophils in the general blood test.

These cells help the body cope with infections, eliminate its own extinct microparticles. According to their structure, they are divided into two groups: mature, immature.

  • The norm of neutrophils in the blood in children and adults.

The indicator under consideration displays the percentage of stab, segmented neutrovils in the total number of leukocytes. Consider the rate of stab in the blood in children, adults:

  • On the 1st day after birth: 1-17%.
  • In children from 1 month up to 1 year: from 0.5 to 4%.
  • Age group 1-12 years: 0.5-5%.
  • From 13 to 15 years old: not more than 6%, not less than 0.5.
  • From 16 years old (women/men): 1-6%.

The indicators of the norm of segmented nuclei in the blood are as follows:

  • In newborns on the 1st-3rd day of life: not more than 75-80%, not less than 45%.
  • Babies from 1 month up to 1 year: from 15 to 45%.
  • Age group 1-6 years: 25-60%.
  • From 7 to 12 years old: no more than 66%, no less than 34%.
  • In adolescence (up to 15 years inclusive.): 40-65%.
  • 16 years old (women/men): 47-72%.
  • Reasons for the increase and decrease in neutrophils in children and adults.

An increase in the number of neutrophils can be triggered by such phenomena:

  • body infection.
  • Oncological diseases.
  • Vaccination.
  • inflammatory phenomena.

A decrease in neutrophils in the blood may occur due to:

  1. Treatment aimed at eliminating cancer: chemotherapy, medication. Taking other drugs that inhibit the protective capabilities of the body.
  2. Errors in the work of the bone marrow.
  3. Irradiation.
  4. "Children's" infectious diseases (rubella, measles, etc.).
  5. An excess of hormones that are produced by the thyroid gland.

Eosinophils in the general blood test.

  • The norm of eosinophils in the blood in children and adults.

The given indicator displays the percentage of eosinophils in the total number of leukocytes:

  • On the 1st day of a baby's life: 0.5-6%.
  • In the age range of 1 month-12 years: not more than 7%, not less than 0.5%.
  • Age group 13-15 years: not more than 6%, not less than 0.5%.
  • From 16 years old (women/men): from 0 to 5%.
  • Reasons for the increase and decrease in eosinophils in children and adults.

An increase in the number of these cells can occur against the background of:

A decrease in eosinophils can be triggered by:

  • Childbirth.
  • Infection of the body (including the postoperative period).
  • Chemical poisoning.

Basophils in the general blood test.

When testing the blood, these cells may not be detected: the fewest elements of the immune system. They consist of microparticles, which provoke the occurrence of inflammatory phenomena in the tissues.

  • The norm of basophils in the blood in children and adults.

Displays the percentage of eosinophils in the total white blood cell count. For children of any age, male/female patients, the number of eosinophils should be 0-1%.

  • Reasons for the increase and decrease in basophils in children and adults.

An increase in the considered component of the blood occurs when:

To have an idea about the state of health in the first place helps to correctly decipher the blood test of a sick person.

A blood test is one of the most important and most common methods of examination in medical institutions, which helps to establish a diagnosis. Usually, the attending physician is engaged in deciphering the blood test, however, many patients want to independently verify the reliability of such important data.

For any disease, diagnostics is always prescribed, which begins with a general blood test - KLA. Thanks to this analysis, the attending physician can determine the dynamics and prescribe treatment for the patient.

Table of norms of blood tests in humans

DesignationNoteNorm indicator
Leukocytes WBC They are white blood cells. They serve to protect the human body.
Exceeding the norm warns of the presence of infection in the body.
The indicator is less than the norm indicates a human blood disease
4.0 - 9.0* l.
Erythrocytes: They are red blood cells. Serve to saturate organ tissues with oxygen
RBC erythrocytes The ratio of large and small red blood cells 11,5 – 14,5\%
Erythrocytes MCV Mean value of erythrocytes 80 - 100 fl
LYM lymphocytes The presence of different types of leukocytes, which are responsible for the state of the immune system in the body.
An increase in lymphocyte levels may be a sign of diseases such as influenza or hepatitis.
A decrease in the level of lymphocytes indicates serious infectious diseases
25-40\%
Hemoglobin: Hemoglobin indicates the presence in the body of animal protein, which is contained in red blood cells. It is red in color and transports oxygen throughout the body.
Hemoglobin levels in women are lower than in men
Hemoglobin MCH 25-35 pg
Hemoglobin MCHC 25-375 g/l
Hemoglobin HGB:
for newborns 140-230 g/l
for children from 1 to 2 years old 100-140 g/l
for children from 3 to 16 years old 110-155 g/l
for adults 110-170 g/l
Reticulocyte RTC: young erythrocytes
for children 0,15 – 1,1\%
for women 0,11 -2,07 \%
for men 0,25-1,8 \%
Platelets MPV, PLT: Platelet levels are elevated after surgery or bleeding, or with cancer
It decreases with infectious diseases, as well as during pregnancy.
for newborns 100-425* 109/l
for children over one year old 185-310*109/L
for pregnant 150-385*109/L
for adults 170-330*109/L
Platelet heterogeneity PDW Deviations in inflammatory diseases 10-15\%
Color index: Overestimated with deficiencies of vitamins in the body.
Decreased in anemia.
For children from 1 to 3 years old 0,7-0,95
For children from 5 to 13 years old 0,8-1,1
For adults 0,85-1,13
ESR: Erythrocyte sedimentation rate. Shows how much protein is in the blood plasma.
Exceeding the norm indicates the presence of inflammatory processes in the body.
For women up to 14 mm per hour
For men up to 9 mm per hour
Thrombocrit (PCT) This indicator may vary depending on the season, time of day, etc. 0,12-0,40
Stab neutrophils: The increase occurs in diseases of angina, with sepsis, as well as with an abscess.
A decrease indicates the presence of anemia, a painful condition of the kidneys and liver.
For babies 5-11\%
For adults and children 1-5\%
segmented neutrophils A decrease in the norm in the blood indicates the presence of anemia. This indicator can be reduced in case of chemical poisoning.
An overestimation of the level of neutrophils occurs with a viral disease, with a disease of leukemia, tuberculosis, and the thyroid gland.
For adults 40 – 60\%.
For children 17 – 70\%.
Eosinophils Increase if the body is infected with an infectious disease or with allergies.
Decrease in the presence of purulent infections, with chronic stress.
1,0-4,9\%
Basophils Increase if there is a blood disease, allergies or problems with the gastrointestinal tract.
Decrease in pregnant women, with stress, with hyperthyroidism.
0,4 – 1,0\%
Hematocrit HCT The percentage of erythrocytes in the blood.
A decrease in anemia, swelling, and also the hematocrit in the blood decreases in women before the upcoming birth.
An increase in hematocrit occurs with burns, with dehydration.
For women 35 – 44 \%
For men 38 – 49 \%.
Monocytes MON absolute value: The level of monocytes increases in the presence of infectious diseases, decreases in anemia.
For children 0.05-1.1 *109/l
For adults 0.0-0.09 *109/l

Allergen analysis

Very often, patients go to a medical institution with complaints of an allergic rash. In this case, the attending physician recommends taking an analysis to determine the immunoglobulin, which can be used to determine the presence of allergens in the blood.

If the human body is healthy, then immunoglobulin is contained in a small amount. Antibodies produced by the human body detect and then destroy foreign cells. But if antigens begin to join the antibodies, then a reaction begins to occur in the body - these are various rashes, itching, and histamine and serotonin begin to be produced.

If an elevated immunoglobulin is detected during the test, then this indicates that a person has a tendency to develop allergies. To do this, laboratories take a sample for analysis, which determines the rate, depending on the age of the patient:

  • Infants: 0 - 12 units / ml.
  • Children aged 1 to 5 years: 0 - 65 units / ml.
  • Children aged 6 to 9 years: 0 - 95 units / ml.
  • Adults and children aged 10 to 15 years: 0 - 200 units / ml.

Deciphering a biochemical blood test

It is recommended to take blood from a vein for biochemistry analysis only in the morning, and before that the patient should not eat for 8-10 hours. According to the biochemical analysis, the doctor judges what inflammatory processes occur in the patient's body, whether there is a violation of the percentage of microelements.

There are certain standards of analysis:

  1. Total protein: 62 - 87 g / l.
  2. If the protein is abnormal, rheumatism or oncology is present.

  3. Glucose: 3.1 - 5.4 mmol / l.
  4. Increased sugar level - a tendency to develop diabetes mellitus.

  5. Urea nitrogen: 2.4 - 8.4 mmol / l.
  6. The indicator of residual nitrogen is increased - there is heart failure, a tumor, kidney disease.

  7. Creatinine:
  8. For women: 52 - 98 µmol / l.

    For men: 60 - 116 µmol / l.

    An increase in the indicator is excessive consumption of meat products, dehydration, hyperthyroidism.

    Decreased rate in liver disease.

  9. Cholesterol: 3.4 - 6.5 mmol / l.
  10. Increasing the rate is a problem with the liver and with the cardiovascular system.

  11. Bilirubin: 5.0 - 20.0 µmol / l.
  12. An increase in the indicator indicates the presence of hepatitis.

  13. Alpha Amylase:
  14. Children newborn and up to two years: 5.0 - 60 units / l.

    Children over two years old and adults: 25 - 130 units / l.

    Increasing the norm in pancreatitis.

  15. Alat (ALT):
  16. For women: up to 30 units / l.

    For men: up to 42 units / l.

    An increase in the indicator in violation of the liver.

  17. Alpha Lipase: 27 - 100 units / l.
  18. An increased rate in the presence of diabetes mellitus, kidney disease, peritonitis.

    Decreased rate of hepatitis.

  19. Gamma-glutamyltransferase (GGT):
  20. For women: up to 48.5 units / l.

    For men: up to 33.4 units / l.

    An increase in the norm is a disease of the liver, a disease of the pancreas.

  21. Aspartate aminotransferase (ASAT): up to 38 units / l.
  22. Excess - there was damage to the heart muscle, liver cirrhosis is present.

  23. Phosphatase:
  24. For women: up to 245 units / l.

    For men: up to 275 units / l.

    Exceeding the norm - a heart attack of the lungs, kidneys, the presence of bone cancer metastases.

Deciphering a blood test for HIV

The final diagnosis of the presence of the immunodeficiency virus can only be established if at least three months have passed after contact with an infected patient.

Repeated analysis for the reliability of the diagnosis is carried out after six months. The results of the obtained analyzes will be reliable only in cases where there was no more contact with an infected patient.

The PCR method (polymerase chain reaction) is used to determine the DNA of the virus. If the presence of infection is detected, then the result is indicated - “positive reaction”. If the presence of HIV infection is not detected, then the result is indicated - "negative reaction".

There are cases where "false positives" are present. This happens when the laboratory worker is poorly qualified or when using outdated equipment. To confirm or refute such an analysis, an F 50 analysis is prescribed, which can find antibodies if an HIV infection enters the body.

Analysis - ELISA, using this analysis, you can determine the following diseases: HIV, infections, herpes, hepatitis, pneumonia. Immunological analysis determines the quantity and quality of antibodies and antigens in the human body.

ELISA is a very common test that detects the presence of chlamydia, syphilis and gonorrhea. The accuracy of this analysis is 90%. With the timely detection of immunoglobulin antibodies, the attending physician will be able to make the correct diagnosis, determine the presence of the disease and its stage.

An ELISA analysis helps to detect the Helicobacter pylori bacillus, such a bacillus can provoke gastrointestinal diseases and create unpleasant discomfort in general.

Also, enzyme immunoassay is prescribed by the attending physician even if the patient has allergic reactions.

Blood test for thyroid hormones

Tests for thyroid hormones are carried out in laboratories and help the specialist to determine whether the endocrine organ, which is very important in our body, is functioning properly. There are several parameters by which malfunctions in the thyroid gland are determined.

Tests for thyroid hormones:

  1. TSH is a thyroid stimulating hormone. It is produced in the human brain and controls the functioning of the thyroid gland.
  2. Norm: 0.45 - 4.10 mU / l.

  3. TK general - triiodothyronine. Such an analysis is carried out with excessive work of the thyroid gland.
  4. Norm: 1.05 - 3.15 nmol / l.

    In older people, the rate decreases.

  5. TT4 - common thyroxine.
  6. For women: 71.2 - 142.5 nmol / l.

    For men: 60.74 - 137.00 nmol / l.

    Deviation - a decrease or increase in metabolism in the body.

  7. TG, thyroglobulin.
  8. Indicator: should not exceed 60.00 ng / ml.

  9. AT-TPO — antibodies to thyroperoxidase.
  10. Norm: 5.65 \% units / ml. and no more.

Serological analysis

A serological blood test is taken in the laboratory from a vein. His research shows whether antibodies are present in a particular group of bacteria or viruses. This may apply to infections transmitted only through sexual contact, to HIV infection, to chlamydia, to measles, to hepatitis, to herpes.

Normal: when there are no antibodies of infectious diseases.

If a patient is suspected of having cancer, he is prescribed an analysis for tumor markers. A neoplasm is always formed on the basis of normal and ordinary cells, but their division occurs at a rate that exceeds the prescribed norms, they “live their own lives”, and at the same time they begin to secrete a metabolic product.

The main task of deciphering this analysis is to detect the presence of a tumor marker indicative of a cancerous tumor.

Types of oncomprkers:

  1. SA 15 - 3.
  2. If the excess is 26.9 units / ml. - oncology in the mammary gland.

  3. SA - 125.
  4. If the excess is 35.0 units / ml. - an additional and urgent examination of the ovaries is performed.

  5. SA 19-9.
  6. Exceeding 500 units / ml. - changes in the pancreas.

    The norm is less than 4.0 ng / ml. - indicates a healthy prostate gland.

    Exceeding 15.0 ng/ml. - the appearance of a neoplasm in the liver is expected.

  7. C-reactive protein.
  8. Norm: no more than 5 mg / l.

    Excess - the formation of tumors in various parts of the body, in rheumatoid arthritis.

    Exceeding 12.5 ng/ml. - the presence of oncological diseases of the lungs, skin.

At a rate of more than 5, 0 ng / ml is required. - additional examination is required. The presence of cancer of the intestines, stomach, lungs and urinary ducts is suspected.

Blood test for pregnancy

If a woman has a delay in menstruation, and the urine test shows a negative result, she is sent to take a pregnancy test. The presence of the hCG hormone in the blood is checked and a swab is also taken from the vagina. To exclude an ectopic pregnancy, the gynecologist directs the patient to take an additional test for chorionic gonadotropin.

If an embryo is found in the patient, then the hCG hormone is secreted from her, and this hormone absolutely indicates the woman's pregnancy.

The norms of the hormone differ from each other depending on the duration of pregnancy.

  • Pregnancy is absent - 0-5 IU / ml.
  • The gestation period is two weeks - 25-300 IU / ml.
  • The gestation period is from three to nine weeks - 1500-100000 IU / ml.