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Reticulated Platelet Count (Automated Blood Cell Analysis)

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

This test measures the number of young, newly formed platelets in your blood that are still maturing. Automated blood analyzers detect these cells by their unique RNA content.

Quick summary

["Understanding your platelet maturation helps assess bleeding risks or platelet function."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
71692-8
Short code
Platelets.reticulated # Bld Auto
Synonyms
Platelets.reticulated # Bld Auto
Category
hematology
Sample
whole-blood
Container
Lavender-top (EDTA)
Units
N/A
Ref low
150
Ref high
400
Critical range
50 N/A – 1000 N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
automated-count
CPT
85049
SNOMED
900000000000003003
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

Why Is This Test Done?

Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have unexplained bruising, bleeding, or if platelets appear unusually large or immature on a blood smear. It can also help monitor conditions like thrombocytopenia or certain blood disorders.

How Is the Test Performed?

A small blood sample is drawn from a vein, typically in your arm. The sample is analyzed automatically by a machine that counts and identifies cells based on their size, shape, and internal components, including RNA.

What Do Results Mean?

Higher-than-normal counts of reticulated platelets may indicate recent platelet production or certain blood disorders. Lower-than-expected counts could suggest bleeding, platelet destruction, or other underlying issues. Results are interpreted in the context of your overall health and symptoms.

What Are Possible Causes?

Increased reticulated platelets can occur after blood loss, certain medications, or conditions like immune thrombocytopenia purpura (ITP). Decreased counts may relate to conditions like thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP), hemolytic-uremic syndrome (HUS), or other platelet disorders.

Reference range

Adult: 150-400 x 10^9/LN/A

Specimen: whole-blood

No special preparation required. Stay well hydrated.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance

Short name

Reticulated Platelets (Auto)

Frequently asked questions

What does my reticulated platelet count tell me about my health?
Your reticulated platelet count helps identify if your platelets are maturing normally. High levels may signal recent platelet production or conditions affecting platelet function, while low levels could indicate bleeding risks or platelet destruction. Always discuss results with your healthcare provider for personalized insights.
Can reticulated platelets be affected by medications?
Yes, certain medications—like chemotherapy drugs, aspirin, or antiplatelet therapies—can influence platelet production or maturation. If you’re on medication, mention it to your provider, as it may affect test results or interpretation.
How soon will I get results, and what should I do next?
Results are typically available within 1–2 business days. Follow your healthcare provider’s advice based on your test results, symptoms, and medical history. They may recommend further testing or adjustments to treatment if needed.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

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.

Medical Disclaimer

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 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy