Full Blood Count (FBC)
Description:
The Full Blood Count tests for haemoglobin levels and indices of red blood cells, white blood cells and platelets. It includes a five part white cell differential and nucleated red blood cell count. All abnormal results are reviewed by specialist HCPC registered Biomedical Scientists, and blood films performed if the full blood count parameters exceed predetermined indices.
Used for the diagnosis and monitoring of numerous pathological conditions.
Due to a change in analytical platform, this test is not currently included within the laboratory's UKAS scope of accreditation to ISO15189:2012.
Used for the diagnosis and monitoring of numerous pathological conditions.
Due to a change in analytical platform, this test is not currently included within the laboratory's UKAS scope of accreditation to ISO15189:2012.
Reference range:
See Haematology Reference Ranges at: Haematology Laboratory at Guy's and St Thomas' Hospital
Synonyms or keywords:
FBC
Department:
Location:
Sample type and Volume required:
Peripheral whole blood and Body fluid samples collected into K2EDTA (Di-potassium EDTA) or K3EDTA (Tri-potassium EDTA) anti-coagulated samples.
Minimum volume 1mL; Minimum volume for paediatric tubes - 500uL
Minimum volume 1mL; Minimum volume for paediatric tubes - 500uL
Turnaround time:
Routine: 1 day;
Urgent: Contact the Laboratory.
Special sample instructions:
For patients with known Cold Agglutinins: Keep sample at 37°C from collection to processing.
Storage and transport:
Keep at room temperature;
Do not expose to extreme temperatures;
Sample stability: samples must arrive to the laboratory and be processed as soon as possible after collection, within 24h post collection.
For patients with known Cold Agglutinins: Keep sample at 37°C from collection to processing.
Contacts:
Blood Sciences Department-Guy's And St Thomas' Hospital
St Thomas' Hospital
North Wing - 5th Floor
Westminster Bridge Road
London SE1 7EH
Contact: 020 7188 9247
Guy's Hospital
Southwark Wing - 4th Floor
Great Maze Pond
London SE1 9RT
Contact: 020 7188 4781
North Wing - 5th Floor
Westminster Bridge Road
London SE1 7EH
Contact: 020 7188 9247
Guy's Hospital
Southwark Wing - 4th Floor
Great Maze Pond
London SE1 9RT
Contact: 020 7188 4781
Haematology Laboratory at Guy's and St Thomas' Clinical Advisory Service
Routine hours: bleep 1358
Paediatrics Routine hours: bleep 1621
Out of hours, weekend and bank holidays: 17:00-9:00 bleep 0294
Paediatrics Routine hours: bleep 1621
Out of hours, weekend and bank holidays: 17:00-9:00 bleep 0294
Last updated: 05/10/2023
