Reticulocyte Count

Message

Performed in Hematology

Test Code

RETICC

Alias/See Also

Retic
Reticulocyte Count, Comprehensive

Preferred Specimen

Lavender EDTA, Whole blood

Minimum Volume

1mL
Microtainer 0.5 mL

Specimen Stability

24 hours room temperature, 48 hours refrigerated

Reject Criteria (Eg, hemolysis? Lipemia? Thaw/Other?)

Specimen must be free of clots and/or fibrin strands
Drawn in expired tube
Hemolyzed, icteric or lipemic
Contaminated

Setup Schedule

Performed daily

Report Available

Less than 4 hours

Reference Range

Reticulocyte Count
UNITS OF MEASURE	%
AGE RANGE	MALE/ FEMALE
0 - 2 weeks	2.5 - 6.5
2 weeks - 150 yrs.	0.7 - 2.8

Absolute Reticulocytes
UNITS OF MEASURE	K/uL
AGE RANGE	MALE/ FEMALE
0 - 2 weeks	108 - 410
2 weeks - 150 yrs.	26 - 168

Critical Values: None

Clinical Significance

Reticulocytes have been defined as immature non-nucleated erythrocytes, which retain a small
network of basophilic organelles comprised of RNA and protoporphyrin. The enumeration of reticulocytes provides an
effective means of determining red cell production and regeneration.

The CPT Codes provided in this document are based on AMA guidelines and are for informational purposes only. CPT coding is the sole responsibility of the billing party. Please direct any questions regarding coding to the payor being billed. Any Profile/panel component may be ordered separately. Reflex tests are performed at an additional charge.