Ailments & ConditionsYour Health

Anemia – Diagnosis and Treatment

Blood Tests

The most definitive way to diagnose anemia is a blood test. In addition, it can also narrow down the possible cause and form of anemia you have. Complete blood count or CBC is the most important option. This standard blood test only requires a blood sample from a vein. Your report typically includes the RBC count and their size. A low RBC count indicates the presence of anemia. Large RBCs also suggest the presence of pernicious anemia. Another blood sample to diagnose anemia is a blood smear. In this procedure, the doctor will examine a blood sample under the microscope. [3]