Reticulocyte Hemoglobin Content (RHC) by Flow Cytometry (Serum/Plasma)
This test measures the amount of hemoglobin inside reticulocytes, immature red blood cells, which helps assess red blood cell production and health.
["Understanding your reticulocyte hemoglobin content can help diagnose anemia or other blood disorders."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 99871-6
- Short code
- RBCGhost # UrnS Comp Assist
- Synonyms
- RBCGhost # UrnS Comp Assist
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- urine
- Container
- Sterile urine container
- 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
- Method
- computer-assisted
- CPT
- 85041
- SNOMED
- 900000000000003001
- Specimen volume
- 10 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 2h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
- Hemolysis max
- 0
- Lipemia max
- 0
- Icterus max
- 0
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
What Is Reticulocyte Hemoglobin Content (RHC)?
Reticulocytes are young red blood cells that contain hemoglobin but are not yet fully mature. Measuring their hemoglobin content (RHC) provides insight into how efficiently your bone marrow is producing healthy red blood cells. This test is often used alongside other blood tests to evaluate anemia or blood loss.
Why Might You Need This Test?
Your healthcare provider may order an RHC test if you have symptoms like fatigue, pale skin, or shortness of breath, which could indicate anemia. It may also be used to monitor treatment for conditions like iron deficiency or blood disorders.
How Is the Test Performed?
A small blood sample is drawn from a vein, typically in your arm. The sample is then analyzed using flow cytometry, a technique that measures the hemoglobin content within reticulocytes. This process is quick and usually requires no special preparation.
What Do the Results Mean?
Results help determine whether your bone marrow is producing enough healthy red blood cells. Low RHC may suggest ineffective erythropoiesis (bone marrow not producing enough hemoglobin), while high RHC could indicate conditions like hemolytic anemia or overproduction of reticulocytes.
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.
RHC is particularly useful in diagnosing and managing certain types of anemia, such as thalassemia or sideroblastic anemia, where red blood cell production is impaired. It complements other tests like reticulocyte count and hemoglobin levels to provide a clearer picture of your blood health.
Short name
RHC
Frequently asked questions
What causes low reticulocyte hemoglobin content?
How long does it take to get results?
Can lifestyle changes affect RHC test results?
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