A reticulocyte count test measures the number of reticulocytes (immature red blood cells) in your blood. It helps evaluate how well your bone marrow is producing new red blood cells and can be used to assess various blood disorders.

The test is often used to:

Diagnose types of anemia
Monitor bone marrow function after treatments like chemotherapy or bone marrow transplants
Evaluate the body's response to anemia treatments, such as iron supplements or erythropoietin therapy

Normal Range:

Adults: 0.5% to 2.5% of total red blood cells
Children: 0.5% to 4% of total red blood cells

High Reticulocyte Count:

May indicate conditions like hemolytic anemia (increased destruction of red blood cells) or blood loss, where the body is producing more red blood cells to compensate.

Low Reticulocyte Count:

Suggests reduced red blood cell production due to bone marrow failure, iron deficiency, vitamin B12 deficiency, or certain chronic diseases.

Preparation:

No special preparation is usually required for this test.