Reticulocytes Test
1,270 Kshs | Home Collection Available
Synonyms
None
Purpose
The Reticulocyte Test is a blood test that measures the number or percentage of reticulocytes, immature red blood cells in the bloodstream. The bone marrow releases reticulocytes, which mature into fully functional red blood cells within a few days.
This test is crucial for evaluating bone marrow function and how effectively it produces red blood cells. It helps determine whether the bone marrow is responding appropriately to conditions like anemia or blood loss. A reticulocyte count can also monitor recovery after treatment for conditions affecting red blood cell production, such as iron deficiency, vitamin B12 deficiency, or chemotherapy.
The test can be combined with Complete Blood Count (CBC), Iron Studies, Vitamin B12 and Folate Levels, Bone Marrow Biopsy, and Peripheral Blood Smear.
Patient Preparation
There is no special preparation required for this test.
Samples
Collect 4 ml of whole blood in an EDTA tube (purple top). Mix the samples gently by inverting eight times immediately after collection. For proper mixing of blood with the EDTA. If sampling is not completed within 24 hours, refrigerate the samples.
Reference Range
It is measured as a percentage of the total number of red blood cells.
Infants: 2% – 6%
Adults: 0.5% – 2.5%
Results Turnaround
Within 24 hours after sample collection.
Diseases / Diagnostic Indicators
The Reticulocyte Test provides insight into how well the bone marrow is producing red blood cells and can help identify underlying blood disorders:
High Reticulocyte Count:
Indicates increased red blood cell production. Acute blood loss, hemolytic anemia (where red blood cells are destroyed faster than they can be replaced), or recovery from anemia after treatment with iron, vitamin B12, or folate may trigger this response.
Low Reticulocyte Count:
Suggests reduced bone marrow activity, which may be due to bone marrow failure, aplastic anemia, chronic kidney disease, or after chemotherapy or radiation therapy. It may also indicate a nutrient deficiency, such as low iron, B12, or folate, which impairs red blood cell production.
Normal Reticulocyte Count:
In an anemic patient, a normal count may still be concerning it could suggest the marrow isn’t responding properly, prompting further investigation into bone marrow function or chronic disease.
This test helps doctors monitor recovery, adjust treatment plans, and detect complications early in patients with blood or bone marrow disorders. For more on the Reticulocyte Test, read this study.