There is no risk associated with the test. However, since this test involves a needle prick to withdraw the blood sample, in very rare cases, a patient may experience increased bleeding, hematoma formation (blood collection under the skin), bruising or infection at the site of needle prick.

A healthcare professional will draw a blood sample from a vein in the arm or a finger-prick or heel-prick (newborns). Unless specified by the doctor, there is no special preparation required before the test.

A Complete blood count (CBC) is not a definitive diagnostic test. Blood cell counts that are too high or too low could signal a wide variety of conditions. Specialized tests are needed to diagnose a specific condition. Your doctor may prescribe more tests to find out the underlying disease