Skip to content

Red Blood Cell (Reticulocyte) Count with Differential Analysis

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

This test measures the number of young red blood cells (reticulocytes) in your blood, which helps assess bone marrow function and identify anemia or other blood disorders.

Quick summary

["Reticulocytes help diagnose anemia and monitor bone marrow health."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
50262-5
Short code
Retic Pnl
Synonyms
Retic Pnl
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Specimen volume
5 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
Hemolysis max
500
Lipemia max
1000
Icterus max
500
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

What Is a Reticulocyte Count Used For?

A reticulocyte count helps doctors determine whether your anemia is due to low bone marrow production of red blood cells or rapid destruction of existing red blood cells. It’s often used to check for conditions like iron deficiency, vitamin deficiencies, or bone marrow diseases.

How Is the Test Performed?

A small blood sample is taken from a vein in your arm. The sample is then examined under a microscope to count reticulocytes, which appear slightly larger and have a faint blue stain due to their immature state.

Why Might You Need This Test?

Your doctor may order this test if you have symptoms of anemia (such as fatigue, pale skin, or shortness of breath), unexplained low red blood cell counts, or if you’re being treated for conditions like chemotherapy or autoimmune diseases that affect blood production.

What Are the Normal Results?

Normal results vary by age, sex, and overall health, but a low reticulocyte count may suggest bone marrow issues, while a high count could indicate conditions like hemolysis or overproduction of red blood cells.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Reticulocyte Count

Frequently asked questions

What causes a low reticulocyte count?
A low reticulocyte count can occur due to conditions like iron deficiency anemia, vitamin B12 or folate deficiency, bone marrow disorders (e.g., aplastic anemia), or certain medications that suppress bone marrow activity.
What causes a high reticulocyte count?
A high reticulocyte count may result from conditions like blood loss (e.g., heavy periods, trauma), hemolytic anemia (where red blood cells are destroyed prematurely), or severe infections or inflammation that stimulate bone marrow production.
Can reticulocyte counts change with diet?
Yes, certain foods rich in iron, vitamin B12, or folate (like leafy greens, lean meats, and fortified cereals) may indirectly support red blood cell production, but diet alone won’t directly affect reticulocyte counts unless deficiencies are present.
  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