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Reticulocyte Count

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

This test measures the number of young red blood cells (reticulocytes) in your blood. Reticulocytes are important because they help your body produce healthy, mature red blood cells.

Quick summary

["Reticulocyte count helps doctors assess your bone marrow’s ability to produce red blood cells."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
77389-5
Short code
RSV Ag BAL Ql IF
Synonyms
RSV Ag BAL Ql IF
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
if
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

Why Is This Test Done?

Your doctor may order this test to check if your bone marrow is making enough red blood cells. It can help diagnose conditions like anemia, blood loss, or bone marrow disorders. Sometimes, it’s used to monitor treatment effectiveness for conditions like chemotherapy or autoimmune diseases.

What Does a Low or High Reticulocyte Count Mean?

A low reticulocyte count might suggest your bone marrow isn’t producing enough red blood cells, possibly due to anemia, bone marrow damage, or certain medications. A high reticulocyte count could indicate your body is overcompensating for red blood cell loss, such as from bleeding or hemolytic anemia.

How Is This Test Performed?

A small amount of blood is drawn from a vein in your arm. The sample is then examined under a microscope to count the reticulocytes, which appear slightly different from mature red blood cells due to their immature ribosomes.

What Are Common Conditions Monitored With This Test?

This test is often used to evaluate anemia types (like iron deficiency or vitamin deficiencies), track response to treatments for blood disorders, or investigate unexplained fatigue or weakness linked to red blood cell production issues.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Retic Count

Frequently asked questions

What does a reticulocyte count tell me about my blood health?
It shows how actively your bone marrow is producing new red blood cells. A high count suggests your body is trying to replace lost cells quickly, while a low count may indicate problems with production.
Can this test help me understand why I feel tired or weak?
Yes, it can. Fatigue or weakness often points to anemia, and this test helps determine if your body is making enough new red blood cells to replace older ones.
Is this test painful?
The blood draw itself is minor discomfort, but the test itself is painless. Most people feel only a slight pinch or pressure during the procedure.
  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