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Nature Genetics 41, 1161–1162 (1 November 2009) | doi:10.1038/ng1109-1161

Genes determining blood cell traits

Nancy C Andrews

The complete blood count, or CBC, is a commonly used screen for indicators of health and disease. It includes measurements of red blood cells (erythrocytes), white blood cells (lymphocytes, granulocytes and monocytes) and platelets, which are important for oxygen carrying, host defense and blood clotting, respectively.