CBC Flashcards
1
Q
WBC
A
White blood count
2
Q
RBC
A
Red blood count
3
Q
HGB
A
Hemoglobin
4
Q
HCT
A
Hematocrit
5
Q
MCV
A
Mean corpuscular volume
6
Q
MCH
A
Mean corpuscular hemoglobin
7
Q
MCHC
A
Mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration
8
Q
RDW
A
Red blood cell distribution width
9
Q
PLT
A
Platelet count
10
Q
MPV
A
Mean platelet value
11
Q
Nuet%
A
Neutrophil percentage
12
Q
Abs Nuet
A
Absolute neutrophilis
13
Q
Ly%
A
Lymphocytes
14
Q
Abs LY
A
Absolute lymphocytes
15
Q
Mo%
A
Monocytes
16
Q
Abs mono
A
Absolute monocytes
17
Q
Eos%
A
Eosinophil percentage
18
Q
Abs Eos
A
Absolute Eosinophilis
19
Q
Baso%
A
Basophil percentage
20
Q
Abs baso
A
Absolute Basophils
21
Q
What are the 5 different types of WBC?
White Blood Cells Fight Invaders.
A
Basophil
Eosinophil
Monocyte
Neutrophil
Lymphocyte
22
Q
What’s the normal range of WBC?
Trick: (W)anna (B)uy a (C)ar
A
5,000-10,000/mcL (cells per microliter)
23
Q
What can increase WBC? (Leukocytosis)
A
Infection, leukemia, stress, medications
24
Q
What causes low WBC? (Leukopenia)
A
Autoimmune, medication, illness, cancer, HIV/AIDS
25
What role does Basophil play a role in? What's the normal range?
Trick: “Bats Stay Low (Basophils) at 0.1 to 2% of the sky.”
Visualize bats flying just above ground level.
(There's an absolute count and a percentage)
Inflammatory and allergy response (0.0-0.1 ×10⁹/L - or 0-100 cells/mcL)
0.1-2%
26
What role does eosinophil play a role in? What's it's normal range?
Trick: “Eagles Soar 1 to 4 miles high.”
Picture eagles flying gracefully in this range.
Allergies, asthma, parasitic infections
1-5%
27
What role does monocytes play a role in? What is the normal range?
Trick: “Monkeys Swing 2 to 8 times per minute.”
Imagine playful monkeys swinging at this rate.
Fighting infection and foreign substances that may invade our body
2-8%
28
What role does neutrophil play a role in our body? What's it's normal range?
They are immune cells that destroy cells such as bacteria that may cause (Bacterial infection)
40-70%
29
What role does lymphocytes play a role in the body? What's it's normal range?
Trick: “Lymph Loves 20 to 40 laps in the pool.”
Think of lymph fluid moving as you swim laps.
They help fight Viral infections
20-40%
30
What are red blood cells sometimes referred to as?
Erythrocytes, red blood corpuscle
31
What is the word 'corpuscular' referring to?
Red blood cells
32
What's a normal RBC count?
Trick: Red Cars Zoom 4.5 to 5.5 times faster. Picture a bright red sports car and its speed limit being 4.5–5.5.
4.5-5.5 million mcL
33
What is a low RBC count termed? What could cause it?
Anemia- could be caused from hemorrhage, pronitious anemia, low iron
34
What is a high RBC count termed? And what causes it?
Polycythemia
Blood cancer -where bone marrow is producing too many red blood cells
35
What's the role of the RBC?
To tranport oxygen throughout the body and replenish the bodies tissues with it. It will carry carbon dioxide to the lungs so we can exhale it.
36
What is hemoglobin ? What is its normal range for men, & women?
Trick: Teenagers (13–17) vs. Tweens (12–16).
Men are in their "teen" years (13–17), while women are a bit younger (12–16).
A protein found in RBC that carries the oxygen.
Men- 13-17 g/dL
Women- 12-16 g/dL
37
What is hemotocrit? What's it's normal range for men & women?
Trick: “Men hit Home runs in their 40s (41–50), while women score in their 30s (36–44).”
Visualize men swinging bats in their 40s and women succeeding in their 30s.
It's the amount of red blood cells compared to the total blood volume
Men-41-50%
Women- 36-44%
38
What's does RBC indicies tell us? (Indicies is a plural for for index) What does it help determine?
This is going to tell us more about the size of the RBC and the hemoglobin.
It helps determine if the patient has anemia and what type.
39
What are the RBC indicies?
Red Blood Cells Measure Lab Values.
MCV
MCH
MCHC
RDW
40
What does MCH tell us? WhAts it's normal range?
Trick: “A Medium Chocolate Hug weighs 27–33 grams.”
Think of a comforting chocolate bar's weight.
The amount of hemoglobin that is in the RBC (27-33pg) (picograms, one trillionth of a gram)
41
What does MCHC tell us? What's it's normal range?
Trick: “Mini Cereal Has Crunch (MCHC) from 32 to 36 bowls.”
Imagine a cereal box claiming it serves 32–36 bowls.
It's the concentration of hemoglobin in the RBC (32-36g/dL)
42
What does RDW tell us? What's it's normal range?
Trick: “Rows of Dancing Women are 11.5–14.5 feet apart.”
Picture rows of dancers spaced out within this range.
Variation of RBC size (11.5-15.5%)
43
What role does platelets play a role in the body? What's it's normal range?
Trick: “Plates for a Party: 150 to 450 guests.”
Picture planning a big event and needing plates for the guest list.
Plays a huge role in clotting. (150,000-400,000 mcL)
44
What is a low platelet count termed? What can it cause?
Thrombocytopenia
Risk for bleeding
Bone marrow issue, chemo, viral infection
45
What's a high platelet count termed? What can it cause?
Thrombocytosis
Risk for clotting
Which are caused by leukemia, inflammatory diseases, acute blood loss
46
What does MPV tell us? What's it's normal range?
It measures the average size of the platelets. (7-10 fl)
47
Elevated HGB (hemoglobin) & HCT (hematocrit)
Give 3 potential causes:
Give 4 potential symptoms:
Treatment plans:
Herbal remedies & why:
Causes: Dehydration, polycythemia, or chronic hypoxemia
Symptoms: headaches, dizziness, visual disturbances, or flushed skin
Treatment: increase water intake,
Herbal remedies:
Nettle- supports kidney function and reduces fluid retention.
Dandelion tea- Acts as mild diuretic to balance fluids.
Both of these herbs encourage hydration and support renal clearance.
48
Elevated WBC
Give 4 potential causes:
Give 4 potential symptoms:
What will you address?
Herbal remedies & why:
Causes: induced leukocytosis (normal), infection, stress, or inflammation
Symptoms: fever, chills, localized pain, or fatigue
Address- underlying infection/ inflammation
Herbal remedies: Echinacea- immune modulator, reduces over active immune response.
Garlic- antibacterial and antiviral properties.
Both of these herbs help manage immune responses and combat potential infections.
High WBC levels may indicate inflammation, infection, or stress. Chamomile's anti-inflammatory and mild antimicrobial properties can help reduce inflammation and support the immune system.
49
Elevated platelet count
Give 2 potential causes:
Give 5 potential symptoms:
What will you address?
Herbal remedies & why:
Causes: Reactive thrombocytosis (in response to infection or inflammation) or less commonly, essential thrombocythemia.
Symptoms: Fever, chills, localized pain, or fatigue.
Address circulation support.
Herbs: Ginger- Anti-inflammatory and prevents excessive clot formation.
Tumeric- Supports healthy platelet function and reduces inflammation.
Both herbs support circulation while reducing thrombotic risk (blood clot).
50
Low HGB & HCT
Give 4 potential causes:
Give 4 potential symptoms:
What will you address?
Herbal remedies & why:
Dietary support:
Potential Causes: Iron-deficiency anemia, vitamin B12 or folate deficiency, or chronic blood loss.
Symptoms: Fatigue, pallor, shortness of breath, and dizziness.
Address the need for iron rich foods.
Herbs: Yellow Dock syrup- High in bioavailable iron.
Nettle infusion- Rich in iron and vitamin C to enhance absorption.
(Blood builder pills)
Dietary Support: Incorporate lentils, spinach, red meat, and fortified cereals.
Iron is essential for red blood cell production, and these options support absorption.
51
Low WBC count
Give 5 potential causes:
Give 3 potential symptoms:
Herbal remedies & why:
Dietary support:
Potential Causes: Nutritional deficiencies, bone marrow suppression, or infection.
Symptoms: Frequent infections, fatigue, or bruising.
Herbs: Elderberry- Antiviral, immune modulator, and rich in antioxidants.
Alfalfa- Nutrient-rich herb supporting overall vitality and immune function.
Shiitake mushrooms- enhances WBC production
These herbs enhance immune system function and promote leukocyte production
52
Low PLT count
Give 3 potential causes:
Give 3 potential symptoms:
What will you address?
Herbal remedies & why:
Dietary support:
Potential Causes: Gestational thrombocytopenia, autoimmune conditions, or preeclampsia/HELLP syndrome.
Symptoms: Easy bruising, prolonged bleeding, or petechiae.
Address the need for herbs for bone marrow.
Herbs:
Chlorophyll- promotes general blood health and supports the production of platelets when nutritional deficiencies are contributing to low levels.
Red raspberry leaf- A uterine tonic rich in iron and other nutrients.
Alfalfa- Rich in vitamin K, which supports blood clotting and platelet function.
Sesame seeds- Rich in iron and supportive of blood health.
Dietary support: pumpkin seeds- high in zinc which helps cell production
Pomegranate- Antioxidant-rich and supports blood health.
Citrus Fruits- High in vitamin C, aiding in iron and nutrient absorption.
53
Differentiating Symptoms and Their Implications
Fatigue and Pallor Suggests
iron-deficiency anemia or low hemoglobin.
54
Differentiating Symptoms and Their Implications
Frequent Infections:
Could indicate low WBC or a compromised immune system.
55
Differentiating Symptoms and Their Implications
Unexplained Bruising or Bleeding:
Points to low platelets or clotting issues.
56
Differentiating Symptoms and Their Implications
Headaches and Flushed Skin:
Associated with elevated hematocrit or polycythemia.
57
Differentiating Symptoms and Their Implications
Localized Pain or Fever:
Signals infection or inflammation tied to elevated WBC.
58
Elevated RBC
Give 4 potential causes:
Give 4 potential symptoms:
Treatment:
Herbal remedies & why:
Causes: Dehydration, smoking, or chronic hypoxia (e.g., living at high altitude).
Symptoms: Dizziness, fatigue, headaches, and potential risk of blood clots.
Treatment- increase water intake
Herbal Support:
Nettle (Urtica dioica): Supports fluid balance and kidney function.
Hibiscus tea: Helps rehydrate and regulate blood pressure.
Why: These herbs encourage proper hydration and circulation.
59
Low RBC
Give 5 potential causes:
Give 3 potential symptoms:
What will you address?
Herbal remedies & why:
Dietary support:
Causes: Nutritional deficiencies (iron, B12, folate), bone marrow suppression, or chronic illness.
Symptoms: Fatigue, pallor, and shortness of breath.
Treatment:
Iron-rich Herbs:
Yellow Dock (Rumex crispus) syrup for gentle iron supplementation.
Red raspberry leaf-
Parsley (Petroselinum crispum): Supports overall blood production.
Chlorophyll- it's molecular structure closely resembles hemoglobin, and it can help boost red blood cell production and oxygenation indirectly.
B12/Folate Support: Nutritional yeast, alfalfa, or foods fortified with B12.
Blood builder pills
Why: These herbs and foods provide nutrients essential for red blood cell production.
60
High Eosinophilis (EOS) treatment option:
Chamomile is a natural antihistamine and can help manage allergy-related conditions contributing to high eosinophils. 1-2 cups daily
61
Herbal remedies for anxiety and stress
Stress can influence immune responses and blood counts. Chamomile tea helps lower cortisol levels, indirectly supporting immune and blood health.
62
Herbal remedies for Digestive Support for Nutrient Absorption:
Proper digestion is critical for absorbing iron, folate, and other nutrients required for blood production. Chamomile soothes the digestive system and enhances nutrient assimilation.
63
Herbal remedies Pregnancy-Associated Fatigue:
Chlorophyll helps with energy levels by improving oxygen delivery via enhanced blood health.
64
High MCV (Macrocytosis)
Causes (4)
Symptoms (3)
Treatment
Herbal remedies & why
Causes: Vitamin B12 or folate deficiency, liver disease, or hypothyroidism.
Symptoms: Fatigue, confusion, or difficulty concentrating.
Treatment:
Folate-rich Herbs:
Red Raspberry Leaf (Rubus idaeus): Supports folate levels.
Lemon Balm (Melissa officinalis): Improves nutrient assimilation.
Why: These herbs address folate deficiency and support overall digestion.
65
Low MCV (Microcytosis)
Causes:
Symptoms:
Treatment-
Herbal remedies & why
Causes: Iron-deficiency anemia or thalassemia.
Symptoms: Weakness, pallor, and brittle nails.
Treatment:
Iron-rich Herbs and Foods:
Nettle and Yellow Dock infusions.
Increase intake of vitamin C-rich fruits to aid iron absorption.
Why: These herbs and nutrients help correct iron deficiency.
ASK FOR ALTERNATIVE HERBAL REMEDIES
66
High MCH
Causes
Symptoms
Treatment
Herbal remedies & why
Causes: Similar to macrocytosis (B12 or folate deficiency).
Symptoms: Fatigue, confusion, or difficulty concentrating.
Treatment:
Folate-rich Herbs:
Red Raspberry Leaf (Rubus idaeus): Supports folate levels.
Lemon Balm (Melissa officinalis): Improves nutrient assimilation.
Why: These herbs address folate deficiency and support overall digestion.
67
High RDW
Causes
Symptoms
Treatment
Herbal remedies & why
Causes: Nutritional deficiencies (iron, B12, or folate), or recent blood loss.
Symptoms: Fatigue, pallor, or difficulty concentrating.
Treatment:
Correct underlying deficiencies as outlined under RBC/MCV issues.
Herbal Focus:
Dandelion (Taraxacum officinale): Enhances nutrient absorption.
Why: Supports digestion and addresses root nutrient deficiencies.
LOOK FOR ALTERNATIVE HERBAL REMEDIES
68
High Neutrophils
Causes
Symptoms
Treatment
Herbal remedies & why
Causes: Infection, stress, inflammation, or pregnancy-related immune changes.
Symptoms: Fever, swelling, or localized infection signs.
Treatment:
Garlic (Allium sativum): Natural antimicrobial.
Calendula (Calendula officinalis): Anti-inflammatory support.
Why: These herbs help fight infection and reduce inflammation.
69
Low neutrophils
Causes
Symptoms
Treatment
Herbal remedies & why
Causes: Viral infections, malnutrition, or bone marrow suppression.
Symptoms: Increased infection risk, fever, or fatigue.
Treatment:
Elderberry (Sambucus nigra): Immune support.
Why: Boosts immune resilience and WBC recovery.
LOOK FOR ALTERNATIVE HERBAL REMEDIES
70
High lymphocytes
Causes
Treatment
Herbal remedies
Causes: Viral infections or autoimmune disorders.
Treatment:
Holy Basil (Ocimum sanctum): Balances immune response.
Echinacea (Echinacea spp.): Immune modulator.
Why: Supports immune function without overstimulation.
71
Low lymphocytes
Causes
Treatment
Herbal remedies & why
Causes: Stress, malnutrition, or chronic illness.
Treatment:
Nutritional focus: Increase protein intake and ensure adequate zinc levels.
Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera): Supports overall immune health.
Why: Helps restore immune balance and function.
72
High MPV
Causes
Treatment
Causes: Indicates larger, younger platelets—seen in conditions like thrombocytopenia or bone marrow disorders.
Treatment: Address underlying platelet issues
73
Low MPV
Causes
Treatment
Causes: May indicate bone marrow suppression or older, less functional platelets.
Treatment:
Focus on overall blood support using Papaya Leaf and Nettle.
LOOK FOR ALTERNATIVE HERBAL REMEDIES
74
High EOS
Causes
Treatment
Causes: Allergies, parasitic infections, or autoimmune conditions.
Treatment:
Quercetin-rich foods (apples, onions): Natural antihistamine.
Chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla): Anti-inflammatory and soothing.
Why: Helps reduce allergic responses.
75
What does understanding CBC allow you to do?
1. Identify nutritional deficiencies that may impact pregnancy and postpartum recovery.
2. Detect signs of infection, inflammation, or stress in the mother.
3. Monitor conditions like preeclampsia, gestational diabetes, or anemia more effectively.
4. Advocate for follow-up tests (e.g., ferritin, B12, folate, or peripheral blood smear) if CBC results are abnormal.
76
Pregnancy specific considerations about physiological anemia
Hemoglobin, hematocrit, and RBC levels often appear low due to increased plasma volume in pregnancy.
Important to distinguish this from true anemia requiring treatment.
77
Pregnancy specific considerations about Infections or Inflammation Indicators
Elevated WBCs are common during labor and postpartum but can also indicate infections needing intervention.
78
Pregnancy specific considerations about clotting risk
Elevated platelets and hematocrit may increase the risk of thrombosis, especially in high-risk pregnancies.
79
Pregnancy specific considerations about monitoring trends
One abnormal value may not be significant, but consistent trends (e.g., rising WBCs or falling platelets) require closer evaluation.
80
The term Erythro means
Red
81
The term Cyte means
Cell
82
The term Indicies means
Plural index
83
The term corpuscle means
Body/cell
84
What is microcytic anemia?
Any of several types of anemia characterized by smaller than normal RBC
85
Define hematology
the study of blood and blood-related disorders, including their diagnosis, treatment, and prevention
86
What is the normal range of Abs Nuet
Trick: “A Nice Crowd (ANC) of 2,000–7,500 people.”
Visualize a concert or stadium event with that many attendees.absolute neutrophil count (ANC)?
2,000–7,500 cells/mcL
87
What is the normal range of Lymphocytes?
Trick: “Lymph Loves 20 to 40 laps in the pool.”
Think of lymph fluid moving as you swim laps.
20–40%
88
List 5 common types of anemia
1. Iron-Deficiency Anemia
2. Megaloblastic Anemia (e.g., Folate or Vitamin B12 Deficiency)
3. Hemolytic Anemia
4. Anemia of Chronic Disease
5. Aplastic Anemia
89
Iron-Deficiency Anemia
Trick:
State CBC findings, symptoms, pregnancy effects
Mnemonic: “I Feel Tired” (Iron, Fatigue, Thin nails)
Think of "iron" as the metal that gives you strength. Without it, you're weak and pale.
CBC Findings: Low hemoglobin, low MCV (microcytic), low MCH.
Symptoms: Fatigue, pallor, pica, brittle nails
Pregnancy Effects: Risk of preterm birth, low birth weight, maternal fatigue.
90
Megaloblastic Anemia (Folate or Vitamin B12 Deficiency)
List CBC findings, symptoms, & pregnancy effects
Trick:
Mnemonic: “Mega Babies Need Folate” (large cells = macrocytic, pregnancy complications = neural tube defects).
Visualize a “mega-sized” cell struggling to fit through blood vessels.
CBC Findings: High MCV (macrocytic), normal or low hemoglobin.
Symptoms: Glossitis, neuropathy (in B12), fatigue, diarrhea.
Pregnancy Effects: Neural tube defects in the fetus (folate deficiency).
91
Hemolytic Anemia
List CBC findings, symptoms, & pregnancy effects
Trick:
Mnemonic: “Hemolysis = Hemoglobin Breakdown”
Imagine red blood cells popping like balloons (breakdown releases bilirubin).
CBC Findings: High reticulocyte count, normal or low hemoglobin, increased bilirubin.
Symptoms: Jaundice, dark urine, fatigue.
Pregnancy Effects: Can lead to severe anemia and complications like fetal hemolysis in cases of Rh incompatibility.
92
Anemia of Chronic Disease
List CBC findings, symptoms, & pregnancy effects
Trick:
Mnemonic: “Chronic Conditions Cause Compromise”
Picture the body prioritizing the disease over red blood cell production.
CBC Findings: Normal or low MCV (normocytic/microcytic), low serum iron, normal ferritin.
Symptoms: Fatigue, mild pallor.
Pregnancy Effects: Rarely severe but may worsen underlying conditions like preeclampsia.
93
Aplastic Anemia
List CBC findings, symptoms, & pregnancy effects
Trick:
Mnemonic: “Aplastic = All Blood Cells Down”
Imagine a factory that shuts down and stops producing cells.
CBC Findings: Pancytopenia (low RBCs, WBCs, and platelets).
Symptoms: Fatigue, bruising, infections.
Pregnancy Effects: High maternal mortality risk due to hemorrhage or infection.
94
The term aplastic means
not exhibiting growth or change in structure
