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Reticulocyte Count with Absolute Count

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

This test measures the number of reticulocytes, immature red blood cells, in your blood. It helps assess bone marrow production and detect conditions affecting red blood cell production.

Quick summary

["Reticulocytes help evaluate if your bone marrow is making enough healthy red blood cells."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
74397-1
Short code
Retics/RBC NFr BldCo Auto
Synonyms
Retics/RBC NFr BldCo Auto
Category
chemistry
Sample
whole-blood
Container
Lavender-top (EDTA)
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
automated-count
CPT
85041
SNOMED
900000000000003001
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 to check for anemia, monitor treatment effectiveness for blood disorders, or investigate unexplained fatigue or weakness. It can also help diagnose conditions like iron deficiency, vitamin deficiencies, or bone marrow disorders.

What Does It Measure?

The test measures the absolute number of reticulocytes (immature red blood cells) in your blood. This count is important because it reflects recent bone marrow activity and red blood cell production.

How Is the Sample Collected?

A small amount of blood is drawn from a vein, usually in your arm, using a needle. The blood sample is then processed to count the reticulocytes automatically.

What Are Common Results?

Results are typically reported as a count of reticulocytes per microliter (µL) of blood. While specific reference ranges vary by lab, lower than expected counts may indicate reduced bone marrow activity, while higher counts may suggest overproduction of red blood cells.

Reference range

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

Specimen: whole-blood

No special preparation required. Stay well hydrated.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Retic Count (Auto)

Frequently asked questions

What Does a Low Reticulocyte Count Mean?
A low reticulocyte count may signal conditions like anemia due to iron, vitamin B12, or folate deficiency, chronic diseases, or bone marrow disorders. It can also occur after blood loss or certain medications.
What Does a High Reticulocyte Count Mean?
A high reticulocyte count often indicates the body is producing extra red blood cells, which can happen in response to anemia, blood loss, or conditions like polycythemia vera.
How Often Should I Get This Test?
Your provider will determine how often you need this test based on your symptoms, medical history, and treatment plan. Regular monitoring may be needed if you have chronic conditions affecting red blood cells.
  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