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Reticulocyte Count with Autohematocrit

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 17, 2026

This test measures the number of young red blood cells (reticulocytes) in your blood and automatically calculates their proportion relative to the total blood volume.

Quick summary

["Reticulocytes help assess bone marrow function and blood production efficiency."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 17, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
57747-8
Short code
RBC # Ur Strip.auto
Synonyms
RBC # Ur Strip.auto
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
test-strip-automated
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

Why Is This Test Done?

Your doctor may order this test to check if your bone marrow is producing enough healthy red blood cells. It can help diagnose conditions like anemia, blood loss, or bone marrow disorders.

What Does the Test Measure?

The test counts reticulocytes, which are immature red blood cells that mature into the cells circulating in your blood. The autohematocrit feature provides a reference for their relative volume.

How Is the Test Performed?

A small blood sample is drawn from a vein, typically in your arm. The sample is processed to count reticulocytes and calculate their proportion relative to the total blood volume.

What Are Common Reasons for Testing?

This test is often used to evaluate anemia, especially when other tests like hemoglobin levels are abnormal. It can also help monitor conditions like hemolytic anemia or after treatments for blood disorders.

Reference range

Adult males: 4.2-5.9; Females: 3.8-5.1 x 10^12/LN/A

Specimen: urine

No special preparation required. Stay well hydrated.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Reticulocyte AutoHct

Frequently asked questions

What does a high reticulocyte count mean?
A high reticulocyte count may indicate your body is producing more young red blood cells than usual, which can happen with conditions like anemia due to blood loss, hemolysis, or certain cancers.
What does a low reticulocyte count mean?
A low reticulocyte count may signal that your bone marrow isn’t producing enough new red blood cells, possibly due to anemia from chronic diseases, bone marrow disorders, or certain medications.
How long does it take to get results?
Results are typically available within 1 to 3 business days, depending on your lab’s processing schedule.
  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 17, 2026. · Read our editorial policy