Reticulated Platelet Count (Automated)
This test measures the number of newly formed platelets in your blood that are still maturing, identified by their distinct staining properties.
["Assessing newly produced platelets helps evaluate blood production and healing processes."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 71693-6
- Short code
- Platelets.reticulated NFr Bld Auto
- Synonyms
- Platelets.reticulated NFr 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 This Test Is Done
Doctors may order this test to check if your bone marrow is producing enough platelets, especially if you have bleeding disorders, recent blood loss, or certain medications that affect platelet production. It can also help monitor conditions like thrombocytopenia (low platelet count) or track responses to treatments.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. You’ll have a small needle inserted into your arm or hand to draw a blood sample. The test is quick and typically done in a lab setting. If you’re on blood-thinning medications, let your doctor know before the test.
What the Results Mean
Reticulated platelets are counted as part of a broader blood test. High counts may suggest recent bone marrow activity, while low counts could indicate impaired platelet production or destruction. Your doctor will interpret results in the context of your overall health and symptoms.
Common Conditions Monitored
This test is often used alongside other blood tests to diagnose or manage conditions like aplastic anemia, chemotherapy-related platelet issues, or autoimmune disorders that affect platelet production.
Reference range
Adult: 150-400 x 10^9/LN/A
No special preparation required. Stay well hydrated.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
Reticulated Platelets (Auto)
Frequently asked questions
How does this test differ from a standard platelet count?
Your doctor may request this test if you have unexplained bleeding, fatigue, or symptoms like bruising easily, especially if other tests (like a complete blood count) show abnormal platelet counts.
You can eat and drink normally before this test, as it doesn’t require fasting. However, inform your doctor if you’re taking any medications that might affect blood clotting.
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 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy