What is this test?
A reticulocyte test determines the number and/or percentage of reticulocytes( Immature Red Blood Cells) in the blood and is a reflection of recent bone marrow function or activity.
 
Sample required
Blood.
 
Patient preparation
No specific patient preparation protocol is required. Inform your doctor if you are on any medications or have any underlying medical conditions or allergies before undergoing this test.
 
Turn-around time (How long does it take?)
3 Hours.
 
Basis of the Test
Red blood cells are produced in the bone marrow, where blood-forming (hematopoietic) stem cells differentiate and develop, eventually forming reticulocytes and finally becoming mature RBCs. A variety of diseases and conditions i.e hemorrhage, hemolysis, bone marrow disorder, kidney disease can affect the production of new RBCs and/or their survival, in addition to those conditions that may result in significant bleeding. These conditions may lead to a rise or drop in the number of RBCs and may affect the reticulocyte count.