White blood cells are infection fighters. Elevated white blood counts may be caused by viral or bacterial infections. Trauma to the body or diseases may increase or decrease the white blood cell count. Red blood cell count can indicate whether the body is producing enough red cells which transport oxygen to body cells. This count also is an indicator of anemia or blood loss through trauma.
Platelets are the clotting agents in the bloodstream.
Cancer and other diseases can reduce platelets, causing the patient to bleed excessively internally or externally. Platelet transfusions can alleviate bleeding. Glucose measures sugar in the blood. High results can be an indicator of diabetes. Sodium and chlorides are body salts regulated by the kidneys and adrenal glands.