Podcast-Interpreting CBC
Learning Objectives
At the end of this course, participants should be able to:
- Identify the major components of the CBC and understand their clinical significance
- Use red cell indices and the Mentzer index to evaluate microcytic anemia
- Recognize concerning patterns in white blood cell counts and differentials
- Interpret platelet counts and mean platelet volume to distinguish inherited and acquired platelet disorders
- Determine when a child’s CBC warrants further evaluation or referral to pediatric hematology/oncology
Intended Audience:
This online course is designed for pediatricians and family physicians.
Abstract:
In this episode, Dr. Eyal Ben-Isaac interviews Dr. Thomas Hofstra, to explore one of the most commonly ordered—and often misunderstood—tests in pediatrics: the complete blood count (CBC). Together they break down the key components of the CBC, including white blood cells and differentials, red blood cell indices, and platelet parameters. Dr. Hofstra explains how subtle variations in these values can guide diagnosis, distinguish between common conditions such as iron deficiency and thalassemia trait, identify inherited platelet disorders, and recognize early signs of bone marrow disease. Listeners gain practical tips on when to order a differential, how to use indices like the Mentzer ratio, and what red flags should prompt referral to hematology/oncology. This episode provides clinicians with a clear and structured approach to interpreting CBCs in children.
Assessment and Earning CME Credit:
This course in English is not CME-accredited. However, it provides valuable educational content that can enhance your knowledge and skills in the subject matter. To receive CME credit for this course in Armenia, you must take the course in Armenian and complete the post-course quiz. You have three chances to achieve a passing score of 70%. Once you pass the quiz, we will send your information to the Armenian Ministry of Health for credits.
Dr. Thomas C. Hofstra
Dr. Thomas C. Hofstra is an attending physician in the Division of Hematology, Oncology, and Blood and Marrow Transplantation at Children’s Hospital Los Angeles and an Assistant Professor of Pediatrics at the Keck School of Medicine of USC. He specializes in nonmalignant hematology, with clinical expertise in inherited and acquired anemias, platelet disorders, hemoglobinopathies, sickle cell disease, thalassemia, bone marrow failure syndromes, hemophilia, and blood conservation medicine. A committed educator, Dr. Hofstra is actively involved in teaching medical students, residents, and hematology/oncology fellows. He completed his medical degree at Loyola University Stritch School of Medicine, followed by Internal Medicine/Pediatrics residency and internship training at Loyola University, and a Pediatric Hematology/Oncology fellowship at CHLA. He is board-certified in Pediatrics and Pediatric Hematology-Oncology, a member of ASPHO, and the recipient of multiple honors including Best Doctors in America and several teaching and humanism awards.
