Many sources list CBC as one of the labs to get for working up new onset HTN. I wondered why you need a CBC for HTN. I think the following reasons explain why:

  1. The complete blood count (CBC) may indicate anemia due to chronic renal disease (Medscape).
  2. Anemia is a risk factor of ischemic heart disease (Pubmed). HTN is also a risk factor for CAD.
  3. OSA is also associated with polycythemia?
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