Hemogram

The hemogram test, also known as HMG or Complete Hemogram Test, is a set of tests including complete blood count (CBC) and erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) that help to assess the body’s overall health and aids in the detection of a variety of illnesses, including anaemia, infection, and leukaemia. It measures several components of blood, including red blood cells (RBCs) which carry oxygen, white blood cells (WBCs) which fight infection, haemoglobin (Hb) which is the oxygen-carrying protein in red blood cells, hematocrit which is the proportion of red blood cells to the total volume of blood, and platelets that help blood clot. ESR test is done to evaluate the degree of inflammation present in the body. 

The hemogram test is done: 
• As a routine check-up.
• To detect the presence of inflammation induced by infections, tumours, or autoimmune illnesses. 
• In cases of symptoms such as unexplained weight loss, headaches, neck or shoulder pain, pelvic pain, and joint stiffness. 
• To diagnose and monitor conditions such as temporal arteritis, systemic vasculitis, rheumatoid arthritis, and polymyalgia rheumatica.
 

Frequently asked questions

How is the blood sample taken?

To take the blood sample, a tourniquet (elastic) band is placed tightly on the upper arm. The patient is asked to make a fist. This helps in the buildup of blood filling the veins and it becomes easy to collect the blood. The skin is cleaned before inserting the needle in the vein in order to prevent bacteria from entering. The needle is then inserted into the vein in the arm and the blood sample is collected in the vacutainer.

What does hemogram means?

Hemogram means a systematic report of the findings from a blood examination

What is the difference between hemogram and CBC?

Hemogram includes complete blood count tests (CBC) along with Erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) while CBC does not include ESR.

Does hemogram require fasting?

No, if the blood sample is only required for hemogram, no fasting is required. However, if additional tests are advised, fasting may be required depending upon which tests have been advised.

What is meant by MCV?

MCV refers to the mean corpuscular volume. It depicts the measurement of the average size of red blood cells.

What is meant by MCH?

MCH refers to Mean corpuscular hemoglobin. It depicts the measurement of the average amount of hemoglobin inside red blood cells.

What is meant by MCHC?

CHC refers to Mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration. It depicts the average concentration of hemoglobin inside red blood cells.

What is Leukocytosis?

When the total number of leucocyte count is higher than the normal range, it is known as leukocytosis.

What is Leukopenia?

When the total number of leucocyte count is lower than the normal range, it is known as leukopenia.

What is Leukemia?

Leukemia is the cancer of the blood in which malignant white blood cells multiply inside the bone marrow. It can be acute or chronic.

What is Lymphoma?

Lymphoma is cancer of the blood that occurs in the lymphatic system of the body. The white blood cells in lymphoma change and grow beyond control. The two types of lymphoma are Hodgkin’s and Non Hodgkin’s lymphoma.

Should I inform my doctor if I am taking any medicines?

Yes, please inform your doctor if you are taking any medicines or supplements as it might interfere with the test results.