Blóðkornafjöldi

Blóðkornafjöldi, also known as blood cell count, refers to the number of different types of blood cells present in a given volume of blood. This measurement is a fundamental component of a complete blood count (CBC), a common laboratory test used to assess a person's overall health and detect a wide range of diseases and conditions.

The primary blood cells measured are red blood cells (erythrocytes), white blood cells (leukocytes), and platelets (thrombocytes). Red blood cells are responsible for transporting oxygen from the lungs to the body's tissues and carrying carbon dioxide back to the lungs. An abnormally low red blood cell count can indicate anemia, while an elevated count might suggest polycythemia.

White blood cells are crucial for the immune system, fighting off infections and diseases. Different types of white blood cells have distinct roles; for instance, neutrophils combat bacterial infections, lymphocytes are involved in viral infections and long-term immunity, and eosinophils are associated with allergic reactions and parasitic infections. Deviations in white blood cell counts can signal infection, inflammation, or other immune system disorders.

Platelets are small cell fragments essential for blood clotting, helping to stop bleeding when a blood vessel is injured. A low platelet count (thrombocytopenia) can lead to excessive bleeding, while a high count (thrombocytosis) may increase the risk of blood clots.

Analyzing the blóðkornafjöldi provides valuable insights into the body's physiological status. Doctors use this information in conjunction with other clinical findings to diagnose, monitor, and manage various medical conditions, including anemia, infections, leukemia, and bleeding disorders.