Hb, Tlc, Dlc & Esr

HB, TLC, DLC, ESR, and EDTA whole blood—are commonly done in clinical settings to assess various aspects of health, particularly related to blood and immune function.

HB (Hemoglobin) Test

• Purpose: Measures the level of hemoglobin in the blood.
• Indications: Hemoglobin levels indicate the blood's ability to carry oxygen. Low levels may suggest anemia or other underlying conditions, while high levels could indicate dehydration or certain diseases.

TLC (Total Leukocyte Count)

• Purpose: Measures the total number of white blood cells (WBC) in a sample of blood.
• Indications: High TLC can indicate infection, inflammation, or leukemia. Low TLC can indicate a weakened immune system or certain types of cancer.

DLC (Differential Leukocyte Count)

• Purpose: Measures the different types of white blood cells (neutrophils, lymphocytes, monocytes, eosinophils, and basophils).
• Indications: This test is used to assess the immune response. For example, a high number of neutrophils may suggest a bacterial infection, while a high number of lymphocytes could suggest a viral infection.

ESR (Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate)

• Purpose: Measures the rate at which red blood cells settle at the bottom of a test tube over one hour. It is a non-specific test that can indicate inflammation.
• Indications: A higher ESR can indicate inflammation in the body, which may be due to infections, autoimmune diseases, or other inflammatory conditions.

• Individuals showing signs of anemia (e.g., fatigue, pale skin).
• People with chronic diseases (like kidney disease or cancer) that might affect red blood cell production.
• Pregnant women (to check for anemia).
• People with dietary deficiencies (such as iron, vitamin B12, or folate).
• Those with a history of bleeding disorders.
• People with symptoms of infections (fever, chills, body aches).
• Individuals with chronic conditions that affect the immune system.
• Those with unexplained weight loss or fatigue, indicating potential immune issues.
• People exposed to diseases that impact white blood cell count (like viral infections)
• People with suspected infections or unexplained fever
• Individuals who have symptoms of an allergic reaction (e.g., skin rashes, swelling)

These tests are useful for detecting underlying conditions but are often followed by other tests to pinpoint a diagnosis. If you are experiencing any of the symptoms mentioned or have concerns about your health, it's best to consult with a healthcare provider to determine which tests are most appropriate for you.