Description
Used to evaluate erythropoietic activity, which is increased in acute and chronic haemorrhage and haemolytic anaemias.
Indications
Reticulocyte count is a good indictor bone marrow activity, it is raised in haemolysis and after blood loss. This test is also useful in assessing response to vitamin B12, folate and iron. The count peaks between days 3 and 5 after commencement of B12 or folic acid, and on day 7 after commencement of iron therapy. It is decreased to less than 0.1% in red cell aplastic states, renal disease, endocrine disease, marrow replacement and disorders of maturation.
Sample Type, Quantity & Conditions
1 ml EDTA Whole Blood Room Temperature
Special Precautions
Avoid haemolysed and clotted samples.
Normal Range
Adult: up to 2.0 % New born: up to 6.0 %