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Reticulocyte Count with Serum/Plasma Mass Concentration Measurement

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

This test measures the number of young red blood cells (reticulocytes) in your blood, along with the concentration of these cells in your serum or plasma. Reticulocytes help assess your bone marrow’s production of red blood cells.

Quick summary

["Helps diagnose and monitor conditions affecting red blood cell production."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
110700-2
Short code
RSV IgG Msmt Ser
Synonyms
RSV IgG Msmt Ser
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
CPT
82784
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 This Test Matters for Your Health

Reticulocytes are immature red blood cells released by your bone marrow to replace older ones. Measuring them helps doctors check if your body is making enough red blood cells or if there’s an issue with production, such as anemia or bone marrow disorders.

When You Might Need This Test

Your doctor may order this test if you have symptoms like fatigue, pale skin, shortness of breath, or if you’ve been diagnosed with conditions like anemia, blood loss, or certain cancers. It’s also used to monitor treatments for these conditions.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed. You’ll provide a blood sample, usually drawn from your arm. The test measures both the count of reticulocytes and their concentration in your serum or plasma.

What the Results Mean

Results help determine if your bone marrow is functioning properly. High reticulocyte counts may indicate anemia or blood loss, while low counts could suggest problems with red blood cell production.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Reticulocyte Count (Serum/Plasma)

Frequently asked questions

How does this test help doctors diagnose conditions?
This test helps identify whether your anemia or other blood-related issues stem from insufficient red blood cell production (e.g., due to vitamin deficiencies, kidney disease, or bone marrow disorders) or from blood loss (e.g., from bleeding or chronic conditions).
What do abnormal reticulocyte counts usually signal?
Elevated reticulocyte counts often point to conditions like hemolytic anemia (where red blood cells are destroyed too quickly) or chronic blood loss. Low counts may suggest aplastic anemia, myelodysplastic syndromes, or certain cancers.
Can reticulocyte counts change with treatment?
Yes, reticulocyte counts can rise or fall in response to treatments like blood transfusions, medications (e.g., for anemia), or therapies targeting bone marrow disorders. Your doctor will monitor these changes to adjust care.
  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