Haemogram vs CBC: Is There a Difference?
Patients in Delhi are often confused by these terms. In Indian laboratories, a haemogram typically refers to a complete blood count (CBC) with 5-part differential WBC count. Some labs offer an extended haemogram including additional parameters. At Dashvanth Healthcare Delhi, we provide detailed haemogram reports with expert interpretation.
Standard CBC/Haemogram Parameters
- Haemoglobin (Hb), Haematocrit (PCV)
- RBC count, MCV, MCH, MCHC, RDW
- Total WBC count with 5-part differential (Neutrophils, Lymphocytes, Monocytes, Eosinophils, Basophils)
- Platelet count, MPV (Mean Platelet Volume)
Extended Haemogram May Include
- Reticulocyte count (immature RBCs – assessing bone marrow response)
- Band neutrophils (left shift in bacterial sepsis)
- Nucleated RBCs (severe anaemia, bone marrow stress)
Interpreting Key Parameters
RDW (Red Cell Distribution Width)
Measures variation in RBC size. High RDW with low MCV = iron deficiency. High RDW with high MCV = B12/folate deficiency. Normal RDW with low MCV = thalassaemia trait.
MPV (Mean Platelet Volume)
Large platelets (high MPV) with low count = immune thrombocytopenia. Small platelets with low count = bone marrow failure.
Absolute Neutrophil Count (ANC)
ANC below 500 = severe neutropenia (risk of life-threatening infections). Critical in chemotherapy patients.
When Peripheral Blood Smear is Needed
When CBC values are abnormal or do not fit a clear pattern, a peripheral smear allows direct microscopic examination of blood cells – essential for diagnosing malaria, leukaemia, and haemolytic anaemia.
Comprehensive haemogram at Dashvanth Healthcare Delhi: 011-41670042.
