What is Reticulocyte Count Test?

A reticulocyte count test is a blood test that assesses the number of reticulocyte cells in your blood. Reticulocytes are immature red blood cells or corpuscles synthesised by your bone marrow. During certain diseases or abnormal health conditions, your body may enhance the synthesis of red blood cells (RBCs). They release the immature red blood cells into the blood circulation. The abnormal conditions include anaemia, bone marrow disorders etc.

A high value in reticulocytes may indicate health disorders. It may be anaemia, blood loss, bleeding disorders etc. It may show higher value during pregnancy and at higher altitudes. However, this is temporary and normal. The count gets normal once your body adapts to the mountains’ low oxygen levels.

    Enquire Now

    • Yes Same as WhatsApp number

    • By clicking on Send, you accept to receive communication from Yashoda Hospitals on email, SMS, call and Whatsapp.

    Need Any Medical Help?

    Talk to Our Health Care Experts!

    doctor avatar

    Need Any Medical Help?

    Have any Questions?

    Why Choose Yashoda Hospitals

    Yashoda Hospitals is committed to providing world-class treatment for patients from across the globe. With the unique combination of state-of-the-art technology, intuitive care, and clinical excellence, we are the healthcare destination for thousands of international patients in India.

    blank
    Comprehensive Care

    On the journey to good health, we understand that it is important for you to feel at home. We plan out all aspects of your trip.

    blank
    Expert Doctors

    Experienced specialists perform non-invasive and minimally invasive surgeries to provide the best treatment for international patients.

    blank
    Cutting-Edge Technology

    Our hospitals are equipped with advanced technology to perform a wide range of procedures and treatments.

    blank
    Clinical Excellence

    We deliver excellence by delivering quick and efficient healthcare and through pioneering research that helps all our future.patients.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    A reticulocyte count test may have multiple uses. It may assess the function of bone marrow and diagnose types of anaemia. It may also help to assess bone marrow function after a transplant. It may also evaluate the progress of treatment. It may be anaemia, kidney, liver diseases etc.

    A reticulocyte count test result with high values may indicate various disorders. It includes kidney disease, liver disorder, bleeding and disorders with bone marrow. It also indicates haemolytic anaemia. It results in the abnormal destruction of red blood cells.

    A low level of the Reticulocyte Count Test indicates reduced synthesis of red blood cells by the bone marrow. It may indicate iron deficiency anaemia, pernicious anaemia, bone marrow failure and furthermore.

    A reticulocyte test may be advised when the usual blood tests show abnormal values. They include complete blood count, haemoglobin test etc. It may be done if you are undergoing any bone marrow transplant, chemotherapy or any symptoms of anaemia. It may include weakness, fatigue, breathlessness etc.

    A blood sample from the vein in your arm is taken with a needle during the test. Once the needle is pierced into your skin, you may notice a mild sting like pain or sensation. Then a required amount of blood may be drawn. It may be 5 ml. The procedure may take hardly five minutes.

    A reticulocyte count test may be performed when there may be any abnormality in your usual blood reports. It may also be performed when you feel any symptoms of anaemia. During iron deficiency anaemia, your body may not synthesise enough red blood cells. This may result in the following symptoms. It may be a weakness, fatigue, headaches, breathlessness, etc.

    Yes, a higher reticulocyte count may be harmful. A high reticulocyte count indicates abnormal synthesis of immature red blood cells by the bone marrow. It indicates blood loss or bleeding, haemolytic anaemia and other disorders. Smoking and toxins in your body may also elevate the reticulocyte count. It may also be high during pregnancy and at higher altitudes. These conditions may not be abnormal.

    Low reticulocyte count may be caused due to abnormal or impaired bone marrow function. It may be due to nutritional deficiencies like iron or folate deficiency. Chemotherapy radiation therapy may also reduce the reticulocyte count. Alcoholism, kidney and liver disease may also cause low reticulocyte count.

    A high or low value in reticulocytes may be due to higher or lower immature red blood cells production. It results from underlying disorders. Reticulocytes may be corrected with medications and therapy. Higher or lower reticulocyte count may be normalised on recovery from disorders.

    The upper limit indicates the highest possible value in test results. The upper limit of reticulocyte count in adults may be 0.5 % to 1.5 %. Abnormal reticulocyte levels may indicate blood loss, bleeding disorders and furthermore.

    CBC indicates a complete blood count. Yes, reticulocyte count may be present in CBC. Reticulocyte count may be the total number of immature red blood cells found in your blood sample. It is indicated and measured in percentage.

     

    Get a free second opinion from our experts at Yashoda Hospitals today.