Understanding the Haematology Profile (DL3) blood test

The Haematology Profile (DL3) is a core blood test used to evaluate overall blood health and inflammatory activity. By combining a Full Blood Count (FBC) with the Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate (ESR), this profile provides a broad yet clinically powerful overview of haematological status.

The Full Blood Count (FBC) measures red blood cells, white blood cells, haemoglobin, haematocrit, and platelets, offering insight into oxygen transport, immune function, and clotting capacity.
The Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate (ESR) is a non-specific marker of inflammation, helping detect inflammatory, autoimmune, or chronic disease activity.

Together, these tests are commonly used as a first-line investigation for symptoms such as fatigue, infection, inflammation, or unexplained illness.

When a Haematology Profile (DL3) blood test is recommended

This profile is recommended when a broad assessment of blood cell status and inflammation is required. Many haematological or inflammatory conditions present with non-specific symptoms, making combined testing essential for early detection.

Testing may be appropriate if you:

• Feel persistently tired or weak
• Have symptoms of infection or inflammation
• Have unexplained weight loss or fever
• Have joint pain or suspected autoimmune disease
• Are being assessed for anaemia
• Have abnormal results on previous blood tests
• Are undergoing routine or baseline health screening
• Are monitoring known inflammatory or haematological conditions

Benefits of the Haematology Profile (DL3)

• Comprehensive overview of blood health
  Assesses red cells, white cells, haemoglobin, and platelets.
• Detects anaemia and blood disorders
  Identifies low haemoglobin and abnormal cell counts.
• Evaluates immune system activity
  White blood cell results help assess infection or immune response.
• Includes inflammation assessment (ESR)
  Detects inflammatory or chronic disease activity.
• Supports investigation of non-specific symptoms
  Useful for fatigue, fever, or unexplained illness.
• Widely used first-line diagnostic profile
  Commonly requested in general and specialist care.
• Simple blood test with no preparation required
  No fasting or lifestyle changes needed.
• Provides clear direction for further testing
  Helps determine whether additional investigations are required.

How the test is carried out

We offer two convenient UK-wide testing options:

Clinic-based blood testing

• Choose your nearest UK clinic
• A healthcare professional collects a blood sample
• The sample is analysed in a certified laboratory
• Results are issued once testing is complete

Home or hotel blood collection (+£60)

• A qualified phlebotomist visits your home, workplace, or hotel
• Blood is collected at a time convenient for you
• No clinic visit required
• Available nationwide across the UK

Both options provide the same laboratory accuracy and clinical reliability.

Understanding your Haematology Profile (DL3) results

Full Blood Count (FBC)

The FBC assesses multiple blood components:

• Red blood cells / Haemoglobin – evaluate oxygen-carrying capacity and anaemia
• White blood cells – assess immune response, infection, or inflammation
• Platelets – evaluate clotting and bleeding risk

Typical UK reference ranges vary by age and sex and are provided with your results.

Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate (ESR)

ESR measures how quickly red blood cells settle in a test tube, which increases in the presence of inflammation.

• Low or normal ESR suggests minimal inflammatory activity
• Elevated ESR may indicate infection, autoimmune disease, or chronic inflammation

ESR is interpreted alongside clinical symptoms and other blood results.