Final Answer:
The test used to evaluate peripheral blood is called a complete blood count (CBC). It includes measurements like packed cell volume (hematocrit), red blood cell (RBC) count, hemoglobin concentration, RBC indices, platelet count, white blood cell (WBC) count, and WBC differential.
Step-by-step explanation:
A complete blood count (CBC) is a fundamental test that assesses various components of blood. The hematocrit indicates the percentage of blood volume occupied by red blood cells. The RBC count measures the number of red blood cells per microliter of blood, while hemoglobin concentration signifies the amount of hemoglobin in blood. RBC indices, such as mean corpuscular volume (MCV), mean corpuscular hemoglobin (MCH), and mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration (MCHC), provide information about RBC size and hemoglobin content.
Moreover, the platelet count denotes the number of platelets in a given volume of blood, crucial for clotting. The WBC count measures the total number of white blood cells, essential for the body's immune response. Additionally, the WBC differential reveals the percentages of different types of white blood cells, like neutrophils, lymphocytes, monocytes, eosinophils, and basophils, aiding in diagnosing various infections or disorders.
For example, anemia can be diagnosed by evaluating the hematocrit, RBC count, and hemoglobin concentration. Calculating MCV (Mean Corpuscular Volume) involves dividing the hematocrit by the RBC count, providing insight into the average size of red blood cells. Overall, the CBC serves as a critical tool in diagnosing and monitoring various health conditions by assessing these essential blood components.