Order CBC (complete blood count) blood testing online

In the majority of US states you can order CBC testing online and have the blood drawn at a local blood draw center (see my general overview of the process).

I'd suggest ordering from Walk-In Lab because they have the cheapest price I know of ($28), and I've been happy with their service. You can also compare the other 6 CBC test providers I've found.

Take a look at my state-specific issues page if you're in AZ, MD, NJ, NY or RI.

Understanding the results

The American Association for Clinical Chemistry has helpful pages for understanding the test and answering common questions.

Optimum level of neutrophils and lymphocytes

I don't know the first thing about neutrophil and lymphocyte levels, but I saw this study that implies to me that high neutrophils and low lymphocytes are associated with bone density loss.

Optimum RDW levels

Mike Lustgarten suggests that red blood cell distribution width levels under 13% are optimal for longevity.

• Red blood cell distribution width and the risk of cardiovascular morbidity and all-cause mortality. A population-based study: "...increasing RDW levels significantly increased risk of cardiovascular morbidity and all-cause mortality."
• Red blood cell distribution width and risk of cardiovascular events and mortality in a community cohort in Taiwan: "...elevated RDW values are associated with increased risk of mortality..."
• Red blood cell distribution width and mortality risk in a community-based prospective cohort: NHANES III: "RDW was also associated with risk of death due to cardiovascular disease (HR 1.22, 95% CI 1.14–1.31), cancer (HR 1.28, 95% CI 1.21–1.36), and chronic lower respiratory disease (HR 1.32, 95% CI 1.17–1.49)."

Sources for CBC testing without differential

Some of the providers I found had CBCs available without "differential" (testing for types of blood cells). It looks a little cheaper depending on which provider you choose.

Show no-differential sources