Hematology Panel with Reticulocyte Count
This blood test evaluates red blood cells, white blood cells, platelets, and the body’s ability to replace red blood cells. It is commonly used to screen for anemia, infection, bleeding or clotting concerns, and other blood-cell disorders.
["The panel helps identify and evaluate many conditions affecting blood cells, but results must be interpreted with your symptoms, medical history, and other tests."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 55893-2
- Short code
- HPRT/APRT RBC-cRto
- Synonyms
- HPRT/APRT RBC-cRto
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- whole-blood
- Container
- Lavender-top (EDTA)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 4.2
- Ref high
- 5.9
- Critical range
- 2 N/A – 7 N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- CPT
- 85041
- SNOMED
- 900000000000003001
- Specimen volume
- 3 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h
- Hemolysis max
- 0
- Lipemia max
- 0
- Icterus max
- 0
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
What the test measures
The panel measures the number and characteristics of red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. When included, the reticulocyte count shows how actively the bone marrow is producing new red blood cells.
What the results can show
Results may help identify anemia, infection, inflammation, platelet abnormalities, or a problem with blood-cell production. A reticulocyte count can indicate whether the bone marrow is responding appropriately to anemia.
Why the test is ordered
Clinicians may order this panel during routine examinations, when symptoms suggest fatigue, weakness, bruising, bleeding, fever, or shortness of breath. It may also be used to monitor an existing blood condition or treatment.
How the test is performed
A blood sample is collected from a vein and analyzed by automated laboratory methods. Some results may be reviewed by a laboratory professional or confirmed with additional testing.
Reference range
Adult males: 4.2-5.9; Females: 3.8-5.1 x 10^12/LN/A
No special preparation required. Stay well hydrated.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Clinical significance: Abnormal values may reflect a condition affecting the blood itself, such as anemia, infection, or a platelet disorder, or another medical problem affecting blood-cell production. Results should be interpreted by a qualified healthcare professional because a single abnormal measurement does not establish a diagnosis.
Short name
CBC with reticulocyte count
Frequently asked questions
Does this test diagnose anemia?
Can an abnormal white blood cell count mean I have an infection?
Why might my results need another test?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 17, 2026. · Read our editorial policy