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North Shore
Veterinary Clinic
When we recommend a senior blood panel or a pre-surgical blood screening, these tests typically involve a chemistry panel, a complete blood count, and a thyroid screen where appropriate. Many of our clients have expressed interest in what specific blood tests reveal. This is a simple overview the tests performed in a complete blood count.
A chemistry panel evaluates various quantities of proteins, and chemical constituents in the blood stream. A panel examines general metabolism, kidney function, liver function, pancreatic function, and levels of blood electrolytes. A complete blood count (CBC) examines the composition and quantities of cellular components in the blood sample.
These tests are categorized according to the body functions they most commonly describe. But because of the complexity of the body's biochemistry, many factors can affect the values of these tests beyond what we list here. This categorization is merely a guide to aid your understanding and cannot be regarded as complete. Always ask your veterinarian as your definitive resource regarding blood screening tests for any questions you may have.
- RBC - Red Blood Cell Count
- WBC - White Blood Cell Count
- MCH - Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin
- HCT - Hematocrit
- HGB - Hemoglobin
- MCV - Mean Corpuscular Volume
- MCHC - Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin Count
- Platelet Count
- Neutrophils
- Lymphocytes
- Monocytes
- Eosinophils
- Basophils
