Reticulocyte Count
Reticulocyte Count
Reticulocyte Count test is used to measure the number of reticulocytes in your blood. Red blood cells that are still in the developmental stage are known as reticulocytes. This test determines whether your bone marrow is producing red blood cells appropriately.
Red blood cells circulate within your bloodstream. These cells bring in oxygen and remove carbon dioxide. You might have anemia if your body doesn't produce enough red blood cells. Low iron levels, blood disorder (thalassemia), or kidney disease that impairs your body's capacity to produce red blood cells can result in anemia.
Thus, getting your Reticulocyte Count test done is recommended to diagnose anemia and to evaluate how your bone marrow is functioning.
This test is also known as Reticulocyte Index, Reticulocyte Production Index, Corrected Reticulocyte, RPI, Retic Count, Reticulocyte Percent
Symptoms of anemia
Fatigue
Headaches
Shortness of breath
Chest pain
Cracks in your mouth
Swelling of your tongue
Enlarged spleen
Feeling cold or numb in your hands or feet
Getting ill often
Craving substances such as starch
What is Reticulocyte Count test used for?
To diagnose specific types of anemia
To keep track of the treatment outcomes for anemia
To monitor whether bone marrow is producing the required amount of blood cells
To check bone marrow function after bone marrow transplant or chemotherapy
Test preparation
No special preparation is required for Reticulocyte Count test. Ensure your doctor is aware of what prescription drugs, over-the-counter medicines, or dietary supplements you are taking. Ask your doctor for details about pre-test preparations, and make sure to follow instructions closely
Interpretation of the Test Results
|
Parameters |
Normal reticulocyte count reference level |
|
Adults |
0.5% to 2.5% |
|
Children |
2% to 6% |
Conditions that could lead to higher than normal reticulocyte count level, include:
· Hemolytic anemia, caused due to red blood cells dying earlier than normal
· Bleeding
· Erythroblastosis fetalis is a blood condition that affects a foetus or newborn
· Tumors or kidney cysts, with increased production of erythropoietin hormone
· Pregnancy
Conditions that could lead to lower than normal reticulocyte count level, include:
· Anemia as a result of low iron levels, folate, or vitamin B12
· Bone marrow failure caused due to tumor, radiation therapy, infection, certain drugs, etc.
· Chronic kidney disease
Liver cirrhosis
FAQs
How is the sample collected during Reticulocyte Count test?
A blood sample is taken from a vein in the arm using a fine needle. This procedure typically takes no longer than five minutes
What are the risks involved in Reticulocyte Count test?
This test involves negligible risk. There might be slight pain or tenderness around the site where the needle went in. Rarely, the site can become infected
What is the turnaround time (TAT) for the result of Reticulocyte Count test?
Reticulocyte Count test result is usually available within 36 hours after sample collection. However, it could take longer at times
If my Reticulocyte Count test result is abnormal, does it mean I have anemia or other health problems?
If your test results are abnormal, it is not always a sign of anemia or other health issues. Pregnancy frequently results in higher reticulocyte counts. Additionally, if you relocate to an area with a high altitude, your reticulocyte count might temporarily increase. When your body has had time to acclimatize to the lower oxygen levels that occur at higher altitudes, the count should return to normal. Talk to your healthcare provider to understand the cause of your abnormal Reticulocyte Count test result
What is bone marrow failure (BMF)?
When your bone marrow is unable to produce enough platelets, red blood cells, or white blood cells, it is known as bone marrow failure (BMF). BMF may be inherited or acquired. The main symptoms of BMF are bruising, bleeding, and fatigue
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