Hemogram
CPT Code(s):
85027
Turnaround Time:
4 hours
Specimen Requirements
Preferred Specimen:
Whole Blood
Minimum Volume:
1.0 mL
Transport Container:
Lavender Top Tube
Transport Temperature:
Room Temperature
Collection Instructions:
Whole blood collected in lavender EDTA tube; inverted several times to mix blood with anticoagulant.
Rejection Criteria:
Hemolysis; clotted specimen; specimen drawn in any anticoagulant other than EDTA; specimen diluted or contaminated with IV fluid; tube not filled with minimum volume; improper labeling; transfer tubes with whole blood; specimen received with plasma removed (plasma is used for other testing)
Stability Criteria
Room Temperature:
24 hours
Refrigerated:
48 hours
Frozen:
Unacceptable
Clinical Significance
Hemogram, also known as a complete blood count (CBC), holds specific clinical significance and diagnostic use in evaluating various components of the blood. It provides valuable information about the patient's red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets, aiding in the diagnosis and monitoring of a wide range of medical conditions.
The specific clinical significance and diagnostic use of Hemogram include:
1. Red Blood Cell Evaluation: Hemogram assesses parameters such as hemoglobin, hematocrit, and red blood cell count. Abnormalities in these parameters can indicate conditions such as anemia, polycythemia, or blood loss. The test helps identify and monitor these conditions, guiding further investigations and treatment decisions.
2. White Blood Cell Evaluation: Hemogram provides information about white blood cell (WBC) counts and differentials, including neutrophils, lymphocytes, monocytes, eosinophils, and basophils. Changes in WBC counts and differentials can indicate infections, inflammatory conditions, allergies, autoimmune disorders, or leukemia. The test aids in diagnosing and monitoring these conditions, providing valuable insights into the immune system's response.
3. Platelet Evaluation: Hemogram includes platelet counts, which are important for assessing blood clotting ability and detecting platelet-related disorders. Abnormal platelet counts can indicate thrombocytopenia (low platelet count) or thrombocytosis (high platelet count). The test helps identify bleeding disorders, clotting disorders, and certain bone marrow disorders.
4. Evaluation of Blood Disorders: Hemogram is used to evaluate and monitor various blood disorders, such as anemia, leukemia, lymphoma, and myeloproliferative disorders. Changes in red blood cell indices, WBC counts, and platelet counts can provide important diagnostic information and guide treatment decisions.
5. Infection and Inflammation Assessment: Hemogram aids in assessing infections and inflammation. An elevated WBC count, along with changes in the WBC differential, can indicate bacterial or viral infections. Inflammatory conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus, or vasculitis can also be detected through abnormalities in the WBC count and inflammatory markers.
6. Monitoring Treatment Response: Serial Hemogram tests are used to monitor treatment response in various conditions. For example, in chemotherapy or radiation therapy for cancer, regular Hemogram tests help evaluate the effect on blood cell counts and guide treatment adjustments.
7. Overall Health Assessment: Hemogram is often included as part of routine health check-ups to assess the overall health status of an individual. It provides baseline information and can detect early signs of underlying medical conditions, allowing for early intervention and management.
It is important to note that Hemogram is a screening tool and may require furthers to confirm specific diagnoses. Interpretation of the results should consider various factors such as age, sex, patient history, and other clinical findings.
In summary, Hemogram has specific clinical significance in evaluating red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. It aids in diagnosing and monitoring various blood disorders, infections, inflammation, and treatment responses. By providing comprehensive information about the components of the blood, Hemogram contributes to the assessment of overall health and guides further diagnostic and treatment decisions.