The complete blood count (CBC) measures your red and white blood cell numbers as well as hemoglobin and other numbers. Abnormal increases or decreases in these cell counts may indicate that you have an underlying medical condition that calls for further evaluation. But the CBC is not a test for HIV.

Can you detect HIV in CBC?

A regular CBC does not give T-cell counts. Most people with HIV infection get special T-cell tests. However, the results of a CBC are needed to calculate T-cell counts so both tests are done at the same time.

Can regular blood work detect HIV?

Almost 90 percent of Americans say they would be comfortable being tested for HIV as part of routine medical examinations. But routine blood tests—or pap tests that are part of routine gynecological exams—do not automatically include a test for HIV.