Reticulocyte Count
A reticulocyte count (retic count) measures the number of reticulocytes in your blood.
A reticulocyte count (retic count) measures the number of reticulocytes in your blood. Reticulocytes are immature (still developing) red blood cells (RBCs). Your body makes reticulocytes in your bone marrow. Then it sends them into your blood, where they mature into red blood cells within one to two days. The main job of the red blood cells is to move oxygen from your lungs to every cell in your body. Your bone marrow constantly creates new red blood cells as your body needs them. A reticulocyte count checks to see if your bone marrow is making the right amount of red blood cells when old ones die off. If you have too few, your tissues may not get enough oxygen. If you have too many, you could be at risk for blood clots or other health concerns. This test can check for certain health conditions or show how well a treatment is working. If the reticulocyte count is too high or too low, it can be a sign of a serious health condition, including anemia and conditions of the bone marrow , liver , and kidneys . Other names: retic count, reticulocyte percent, reticulocyte index, corrected reticulocyte, reticulocyte production index, RPI
Why is this test ordered? You may need this test if: Other blood tests show your red blood cell levels are not normal. These tests may include a complete blood count , hemoglobin test , and/or hematocrit test . You are being treated with radiation or chemotherapy. You recently received a bone marrow transplant. You may also need this test if you have symptoms of anemia. They include: Shortness of breath Weakness or fatigue Headache Dizziness Arrhythmia (a problem with the rate or rhythm of your heartbeat) Sometimes newborn babies may have a reticulocyte count test to check for a blood disorder called hemolytic disease of the newborn (HDN). This condition may happen if your blood does not match the blood type of your unborn baby. This is known as Rh incompatibility . It causes your immune system to attack your baby's red blood cells. You most likely will be tested for Rh incompatibility during a routine prenatal screening . This screening helps to prevent HDN by providing early treatment.
Clinical Interpretation
To understand the results of a reticulocyte count test, your provider will consider your symptoms, medical history, and the results of other blood tests. If your results show a higher-than-normal reticulocyte count (reticulocytosis), it may mean: You have hemolytic anemia , a type of anemia in which red blood cells are destroyed faster than the bone marrow can replace them. You have had new or ongoing bleeding (hemorrhage) , and your body is making many more red blood cells to replace what you've lost. Your baby has hemolytic disease of the newborn (HDN) , a condition that limits the ability of a baby's blood to carry oxygen to organs and tissues. If your results show a lower-than-normal reticulocyte count, it may mean you have: Iron deficiency anemia , the most common type of anemia. It happens when you don't have enough iron in your body. Pernicious anemia , a type of megaloblastic anemia which can happen when your body is not getting enough of certain B vitamins (B12 and folate ) in your diet or when your body can't absorb enough B vitamins. Aplastic anemia , an uncommon type of anemia, happens when the bone marrow isn't able to make enough blood cells. Bone marrow failure , which may be caused by an infection or cancer. Kidney disease. Cirrhosis , or scarring of the liver. If your reticulocyte test results were not normal, it doesn't always mean you have anemia or another health condition. For example, your reticulocyte count may not be normal because: Your reticulocyte counts may be higher during pregnancy. You may have an increase in your count for a short time if you move to a place with a high altitude. The count should return to normal once your body gets used to the lower oxygen levels that happen in higher altitudes. Some medicines may increase or decrease your reticulocyte count. If you have questions about your results or your child's results, talk to your health care provider. Learn more about laboratory tests, reference ranges, and understanding results .
Clinical Protocol & Patient Advice
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You don't need any special preparations for a reticulocyte count test.
Usage Guidance
- Reference ranges vary by laboratory. Always discuss your specific results with a qualified healthcare professional.
Source: MedlinePlus, National Library of Medicine. View the original.