Reticulocytes are immature red blood cells in the process of erythropoesis (red blood cell formation). They are also called immature blood cells. They are made in bone marrow and sent intoı the blood stream. They turn into mature cells in approximately two days.
Interpretation: If reticulocyte count is high or low, it points out a pathological situation like anemia,disorders in bone marrow, liver and kidneys. If there is anemia, the patient has symptoms like fatique, shortness of breath, weakness, pale skin, cold hands or feet. If the counts are higher than normal there might be; Hemolytic anemia(red blood cells are destroyed faster than their normal lives), Hemolytic disease of newborn (baby’s blood is not able to carry oxygen), If the counts are lower than normal; Iron deficiency anemia, Pernicious anemia (Vitamin B12 and folate deficiency), Aplastic anemia (Bone marrow cannot make enough blood cells), Bone marrow cancer, Kidney diseases, Cirrhosis, Are suspected. Sometimes newborns are tested for reticulocyte count if the mother’s blood attacks the baby’s erythrocytes because of the Rh incompatibility.
Sample: Arm vein plasma(EDTA). Nonfasting
Working day: Everyday
Result Time: Same day 6:00 PM
