There are a lot of acronyms used in the medical field. One area where we use abbreviations frequently is with the blood work and laboratory tests we run. In this three part series of blogs, we will look at some of the different abbreviations and acronyms we use so you can speak the lingo with us! This first part of the series will focus on the CBC. CBC stands for complete blood count. It is a test that looks at the numbers, shapes, color, age, and types of red and white blood cells, as well as platelets. Red blood cells or RBCs are used by the body to circulate oxygen, which is carried by hemoglobin. A CBC also looks at hemoglobin amount. Too low of a red blood cell count is called anemia. Blood loss, lack of production, and increased consumption of red blood cells can all lead to an anemia. Blood loss can occur from injuries (cuts, punctures), trauma, bleeding ulcers, nose bleeds, etc. A lack of production is usually indicative of a bone marrow problem, or sometimes it can be seen with severe kidney disease. Increased consumption can occur if there was a past bleeding event, or if there are tumors destroying blood cells, or in auto immune diseases affecting the […]
Learn MoreAs January rolls in, we find ourselves and our pets becoming another year older. Did you know that your pet ages more rapidly than we do, and can be affected by some of the same age related diseases? Dogs over 50 pounds are considered seniors after the age of 5, and dogs under 50 pounds and cats are considered seniors after the age of 7. Since they age quicker, we recommend yearly to twice a year blood work and examinations to help us detect health issues early. There are a number of tests we may recommend based on your pet’s age, symptoms, and health status. These include a variety of blood tests such as a complete blood count, chemistry panel, and thyroid tests, a urine test, or other tests as necessary. A complete blood count, or CBC, is a blood test that looks at the number, size, shape, and color of the red blood cells, white blood cells, platelets or clotting cells, and the amount of protein in the blood. This test can help alert us to problems such as anemia, infections, clotting disorders, dehydration, blood parasites, or even cancer. A chemistry profile is another blood test. It looks at liver and kidney values to help alert us to problems such as liver disease, kidney disease, […]
Learn MoreHeritage Animal Hospital is a full-service veterinarian clinic that provides examinations, diagnostic services, dental care, surgical services, medicine, grooming and boarding services in Maple Grove, Minnesota. We are dedicated to providing the highest level of pet care possible and facilitating an environment where client communication and education are at the forefront of our practice.
12624 Base Lake Road
Maple Grove, MN 55369
Mon-Fri: 7:30 a.m. - 6:30 p.m.
Sat: 7:30 a.m. - 6:30 p.m.