Home
HelpTest Code LAB296 Reticulocyte Count, Blood
Useful For
Reflecting the bone marrow activity of red-cell production in response to therapy or increased destruction
Methodology
Automated
Performing Laboratory
Bozeman Health Laboratory Services
Specimen Requirements
Specimen Type: Whole blood
Container/Tube: Lavender top (EDTA) or lavender top (EDTA) Microtainer
Specimen Volume: 4 mL
Pediatric Volume: 1 full Microtainer
Collection Instructions: If there is a delay in transport of >24 hours, refrigerate specimen and send specimen refrigerated.
Specimen Rejection: Unrefrigerated specimen> 24 hours old. Refrigerated specimen >48 hours old.
Specimen Transport Temperature
Ambient <24 hours/Refrigerated <48 hours
Specimen Stability
| Specimen Type | Temperature | Time |
|---|---|---|
| EDTA whole blood | Ambient | 24 hours |
| Refrigerated | 72 hours |
Reference Values
| Component | Age | Normal Range |
|---|---|---|
| Reticulocyte Percent | ≤14 days | 2.5-6.5% |
| >14 days | 0.5-1.5% | |
| Reticulocyte Hemoglobin | 29-35 pg | |
| Immature Reticulocyte Fraction | 3-16% |
Day(s) Test Set Up
Monday through Sunday
Test Classification and CPT Coding
85046