CBC is Complete Blood Count

CBC is Complete Blood Count.  That means red cells, white cells, and platelets.  A normal CBC eliminates diseases of the bone marrow such as leukemia or myeloma, both of which can cause osteoporosis and Fragility Fractures.  I rarely find patients with these conditions, and then, almost always in early, treatable stages.

By far the most common finding in a CBC is mildly low numbers of red cells.  This is usually something a person has had for years and is of no concern.  However, low red cells (anemia) can indicate a problem with nutrition.

Low iron (iron deficiency anemia) or low B12 or Folate (pernicious anemia) can indicate a general nutritional problem.  Optimal bone health requires adequate Calcium, Vitamin D3, Protein, Magnesium, and many trace elements.  Simply adding Multiple Vitamins & Minerals is often enough to correct nutritional issues beyond calcium, D3, and protein.

Crohn’s, Colitis, Irritable Bowel Syndrome, Lactose Intolerance, and Celiac all harm bone health and are usually already known.  However mild (sub-clinical) cases can escape detection, especially sub-clinical celiac.  I have several patients who have tried a gluten-free diet at my suggestion, and have cured long standing digestive issues.

Abnormal numbers of white cells usually mean allergies or minor infections.  (We are finishing tree pollen season and entering hay fever season.)   Occasionally we need further blood tests to rule out myeloma or leukemia.

Very low platelets can happen suddenly and without warning.  I have been the find it only once in 40+ years.  That, and all other rare, but potentially serious, conditions I refer  for further work-up.

Remember, if you screen for problems and find none, you can stop worrying about a lot of rare diseases and conditions.  If the CBC reveals a problem, you can fix it, and then Take Control Naturally.

Jasy Ginther, MD

Categorised in: Evaluation and Screening, Osteoporosis