Blood disorders, also known as hematology disorders are abnormalities found in the blood cells that affect the functions and quantity of blood cells. Depending on the severity of the case, blood disorders can affect protein storage in the blood, clotting, and the functionality of the body’s immune system. Hence, the need for lab tests for common blood disorders.
Below are some of the common blood disorders or hematology disorders you can test for in the laboratory.
Common blood disorders and the corresponding lab tests.
1. Full blood count test
FBC testing, as it is so often called, is the lab test that evaluates the major components of the typical blood sample. Hence, its name: full blood count test. The three components evaluated by this lab test are platelet, red blood cells, and white blood cells. If you are asking why you should take this blood disorder test, there is a myriad of reasons why you should. But the more obvious ones are to check for haemato-oncological diseases, anemia, and infections.
2. White blood cell testing
White blood cells function as the body’s defenders against sickness and diseases. But, there some situations where the white blood cells fall short in protecting the body against perilous diseases. Hence, why the White blood cell testing or WBC testing is invaluable when it comes to blood disorders and abnormalities. WBC testing is even more vital to people suffering from anemia or infections since they are often associated with increased amounts of white blood cells.
3. Hemoglobin testing
Oxygen travels through the body with the help of hemoglobin proteins housed in the blood cells. Thus, if the number of hemoglobin proteins in your blood falls below the optimum amount, your body will lose oxygen. Left unchecked, the lack of hemoglobin in the blood may lead to paralysis. Hence, the importance of hemoglobin testing. Why is my hemoglobin level high or low? Hemoglobin level may fall below normal if a patient is suffering from lymphoma, anemia, or blood loss. In contrast, hemoglobin levels will increase if a patient is suffering from chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, dehydration, or congestive heart failure.
4. Reb blood cell testing
The name gives it away already. Red blood cell testing or RBC testing is a lab test that evaluates your blood for red blood cells. While the human blood may appear red to the physical eyes, there is only a finite amount of red blood cells in a sample of blood. As increased amounts of red blood cells have been associated with anxiety, stress, and dehydration, RBC testing can help you stay clear of severe conditions.
5. Hematocrit and Platelets
Medically known as HCT, hematocrit is the ratio of plasma to red blood cells in a sample of blood. This lab test is common with blood disorders relating to anemia and hydration levels. However, in the case of anemia, RBC, WBC, and hemoglobin testing are also recommended.
Conclusion
Other lab tests for blood disorders include blood glucose testing, mono screening, and cholesterol testing.