11 replies to this topic

[random]

I was wondering if blast are available in a CBC test?

Or a different test should be done?

Thanks!

[Samcerly]

I think they show up in a CBC if they are present, cause when I was first diagnosed that is what was ordered and I had some.

[Trey]

.....as long as the CBC was done "with differential".

[noelani]

What exactly is it called on a CBC?

[CallMeLucky]

If it doesn't say blasts, look for something with the word or abbreviation for Immature, something like "immature granulocytes" or something similar to that.

[random]

Trey, as always you're right. It says "+ diff" on the top of the result

Still, unable to locate where blasts are.

Gave the link because for me this result is scaled bad on my display.

LINK: http://img683.imageshack.us/img683/141/wbcdiff.jpg

[Trey]

Depending on the lab and how they report, it is usually written out on a separate line as a noted anomaly, but only if it is worthy of mentioning.

[LivingWellWithCML]

Perhaps BA# is the blast count?  I get my CBCs from a couple of different offices, but I think at Emory it's noted as IBAS (I = Immature), where the number is expected to be zero.

I'm going to double-check this though, cause I had a similar question about my CBCs and didn't get a chance to ask the specialist.

[mlpastorello]

BA# should be the basophils.

[random]

So, from my understanding, there are no blast in the test results because there are none in reality?

[Trey]

Right.  But since blasts normally stay at "home" (in the marrow) until they become mature unless kicked out due to significant overpopulation, the best way to get a blast count is by using marrow aspirate.  This is one case where the marrow is a much better indicator than peripheral blood.

However, it seems that you are worrying about this issue with no evidence to support your worrying.  I would find something else to be concerned about.

[random]

Hi Trey,

Thanks a lot!

I'm more relaxed now.

Have a great day!