A routine blood count (complete blood count, CBC) is useful in clinical practice when there is a specific suspicion of anemia, infection, inflammation, bleeding disorder, or hematologic disease. It is also indicated for monitoring known conditions or therapies (e.g., chemotherapy, immunosuppressants). In asymptomatic individuals without risk factors, routine CBC is generally not beneficial – the likelihood of detecting a clinically relevant abnormality is low, and false positives can lead to unnecessary follow-up tests and anxiety. Evidence for universal screening in healthy adults is weak. Decisions should be based on symptoms, risk factors, and clinical judgment. Evidence: practice guidelines.
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