Why is a reticulocyte count done?
A reticulocyte count is done to:
- See whether anemia is caused by fewer red blood cells being made or by a greater loss of red blood cells.
- Check how well bone marrow is working to make red blood cells.
- Check to see if treatment for anemia is working. For example, a higher reticulocyte count means that iron replacement treatment or other treatment to reverse the anemia is working.
How is a reticulocyte count done?
The health professional drawing blood will:
- Wrap an elastic band around your upper arm to stop the flow of blood. This makes the veins below the band larger so it is easier to put a needle into the vein.
- Clean the needle site with alcohol.
- Put the needle into the vein. More than one needle stick may be needed.
- Attach a tube to the needle to fill it with blood.
- Remove the band from your arm when enough blood is collected.
- Put a gauze pad or cotton ball over the needle site as the needle is removed.
- Put pressure on the site and then put on a bandage.
How do you prepare for a reticulocyte count?
You do not need to do anything before you have this test.
What do the results of a reticulocyte count mean?
Normal
Each lab has a different range for what’s normal. Your lab report should show the range that your lab uses for each test. The normal range is just a guide. Your doctor will also look at your results based on your age, health, and other factors. A value that isn’t in the normal range may still be normal for you.
High values
- A high reticulocyte count may mean that more red blood cells are being made by the bone marrow. This can occur after a lot of bleeding, a move to a high altitude, or certain types of anemia.
- The reticulocyte count rises after the treatment for pernicious anemia, iron deficiency anemia, or folate deficiency anemia starts working.
Low values
- A low reticulocyte count may mean fewer red blood cells are being made by the bone marrow. This can be caused by aplastic anemia or other types of anemia, such as iron deficiency anemia.
- A low reticulocyte count can also be caused by exposure to radiation, a long-term (chronic) infection, or certain medicines that damage the bone marrow.
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