The Curbsiders Internal Medicine Podcast

#291 CBC Abnormalities Triple Distilled

Aug 25, 2021
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ADVICE

Focus on Key CBC Elements

  • When analyzing a CBC, focus on the three cell lines: white cells, red cells, and platelets.
  • Use MCV, RDW, and absolute counts for clues on abnormalities without getting overwhelmed by every value.
ADVICE

Repeat Abnormal Labs First

  • If you encounter an abnormal lab value that doesn't fit the clinical picture, repeat the test before pursuing extensive workup.
  • Repeating labs can often clarify or resolve apparent abnormalities efficiently.
INSIGHT

Smoking Causes Reversible Leukocytosis

  • Smoking is a very common reversible cause of neutrophilia.
  • Advising patients to cut back can resolve mild leukocytosis due to smoking.
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