Understanding Blood Test Results: A Guide to Common Findings

Question
Beth my wife recently took a blood test on an annual physical.She had the following results:
Bilirubin, ToT.(H)1.3mg/dl..   Range 0.0-1.2
RBC/W (L)4.18 10**/Ul                 4.2-5.4
MCH/W (H) 32.2 pg                       27-31
What do these figures and categories represent?
i.e. what do the initials stand for and what part of the body do they envolve?
Thank you,
Dan

Answer
Dan,

A bilirubin count has to do with the liver. Here's a link about the test:
http://www.labtestsonline.org/understanding/analytes/bilirubin/glance.html

RBC stands for red blood cell count. In this test the red blood cells are counted and the size and shape are monitored. Here's a link about that test:
http://www.labtestsonline.org/understanding/analytes/rbc/glance.html

MCH stands for mean corpuscular hemoglobin. It has to do with how much hemoglobin is in the red blood cells.

I'm not sure if there is anything wrong with your wife based on the information you gave me. Her lab results aren't far out of range. If the doctor's office doesn't call to follow up, then assume she is fine. If you aren't comfortable with waiting, then I'd go ahead and give them a call. It would put your mind at ease.

Let me know if you need more information.

Beth