CBC w/ diff
Medical abbreviation · Laboratory Test
| Stands for | Complete blood count with differential |
|---|---|
| Categories | Medical |
CBC w/ diff stands for Complete blood count with differential, a laboratory test abbreviation.
Extends the basic CBC by breaking the white cell count into its five normal types (neutrophils, lymphocytes, monocytes, eosinophils and basophils) and flagging immature or abnormal cells. The pattern helps separate bacterial from viral infection, allergic or parasitic disease, and bone marrow disorders such as leukemia.
Example: Order: CBC w/ diff, BMP and blood cultures x2 before the first antibiotic dose.
Usage notes
Most analyzers produce an automated differential; when they flag blasts, atypical lymphocytes or other abnormalities, a technologist performs a manual differential by counting at least 100 cells on a stained smear. Results are given as percentages and as absolute counts, and clinicians usually act on the absolute numbers. Also written CBC with diff, CBC/diff or CBC + diff.
Related abbreviations
More laboratory test abbreviations
- BMP – Basic metabolic panel
- BUN – Blood urea nitrogen
- C&S – Culture and sensitivity
- Ca – Calcium
- CAP – College of American Pathologists
- CBC – Complete blood count
- Chem 7 – Seven-test chemistry panel
- CK – Creatine kinase
- CK-MB – Creatine kinase-MB isoenzyme
- Cl – Chloride
- CLIA – Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments
- CMP – Comprehensive metabolic panel
See all 135 laboratory test abbreviations →
This entry is for general education and is not medical advice. Abbreviation use varies between institutions; always confirm in context.