What do Blood Counts Really Mean?

Pediatric Patient Information on Blood Counts

A blood count or CBC (complete blood count) measures the number of each type of blood cell in the body. The bone marrow is the "factory" where these blood cells are made. Red blood cells (RBCs), white blood cells (WBCs) and platelets (PLTS) are made here. A common side effect of chemotherapy is bone marrow depression. When the bone marrow is depressed, the number of RBCs, WBCs and PLT S is decreased. When the number of these blood cells is decreased, one has a "low blood count."

Blood counts are done often, so you and your doctor know when your child's blood counts are low and when your child requires special care.

California Pacific Medical Center

Specialty pediatric services at CPMC in San Francisco feature some of the top-rated pediatric physician specialists in the San Francisco Bay Area and northern California. We deliver family-centered care to babies, young children, adolescents, and children through age 18 using the most advanced diagnostic and treatment options available. We are located in San Francisco and serve the San Francisco bay area, Marin and all of Northern California.