When we do CBC we checked:
OR
Dentist see in CBC:
- A- RBCs, WBCs, platelet, HB***
- B- RBCs, WBCs, platelet, HB, k.
- C- RBCs, WBCs, HCT, HCT, platelets, Hb.
- D- RBCs, WBCs, HCT, HCT, platelets, Hb, calcium.
The most accurate answer for what a dentist is interested in when looking at a complete blood count (CBC) is: A. RBCs, WBCs, platelets, HB.
Here's why the other options are less relevant:
- B. k:
Potassium (k) is not typically included in a standard CBC and wouldn't be of primary interest to a dentist.
- C. HCT twice:
Hematocrit (HCT) is only listed once in a CBC result. Repeating it wouldn't provide additional information.
- D. Calcium:
Calcium is not part of a standard CBC and wouldn't be used by a dentist to assess oral health or potential complications.
Basic Elements:
Therefore, a dentist looking at a CBC would primarily focus on the following components:
- RBCs (Red blood cells):
Low red blood cell count (anemia) could indicate oxygen supply issues that might affect wound healing after dental procedures.
- WBCs (White blood cells):
Elevated white blood cell count could indicate infection or inflammation, impacting treatment decisions.
- Platelets:
Platelet count plays a role in blood clotting and is important for minimizing bleeding during and after dental procedures.
- Hb (Hemoglobin):
Hemoglobin measures the oxygen-carrying capacity of red blood cells and can be relevant for assessing potential anemia and its impact on healing.
While other elements in a CBC might be relevant in specific situations or for patients with underlying medical conditions, the core components listed in option A are the most commonly seen and utilized by dentists when interpreting a CBC.
Remember, dentists and physicians have different areas of expertise. While a CBC can offer valuable information for both, the specific elements they focus on and the interpretations they draw will differ based on their specialties and the context of patient care.
