What is a Reticulocyte Count Test?
The bone marrow generates immature red blood cells called reticulocytes, which enter the bloodstream and serve a vital function in delivering oxygen from the lungs to all cells in the body. Reticulocytes take around 48 hours to mature into fully functional red blood cells after their formation.
- The count of reticulocytes in the blood is a measure of their quantity.
- Reticulocytes are considered youthful and undeveloped red blood cells.
- Deviations in the number of reticulocytes can indicate various health issues.
- Unusually elevated or reduced reticulocyte counts may indicate conditions such as anaemia or problems with vital organs like the bone marrow, liver, or kidneys disorders.
- Maintaining vigilance over reticulocyte counts and addressing any irregularities promptly is crucial for maintaining good health.
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Get A Second OpinionWhat is it used for the Reticulocyte Count Test?
A reticulocyte count is usually used to:
- Determine the type of anemia. Anemia is a disorder in which the blood contains fewer red blood cells than usual. Anemia comes in various forms and causes.
- Check to see if the anemia treatment is effective.
- Examine if the bone marrow is creating enough blood cells.
- Examine bone marrow function following chemotherapy or a bone marrow transplant.
Why do I need a reticulocyte count?
This test may be required if:
- The red blood cell levels are not normal, according to other blood tests such as blood count, hemoglobin test, or hematocrit test
- You are undergoing radiation or chemotherapy treatment.
- You have recently undergone a bone marrow transplant.
Individuals may also require this test if they have anemic symptoms. These include:
Newborn babies are sometimes tested for hemolytic disease of the newborn. This condition occurs when a mother's blood is incompatible with that of her unborn child. This is referred to as Rh incompatibility. The mother's immune system attacks the baby's red blood cells. As part of regular prenatal screening, most pregnant women are tested for Rh incompatibility.
What happens during a reticulocyte count?
A medical expert will take a blood sample from your arm's vein with a small needle. After placing the needle, a small amount of blood is collected in a test tube or vial. When the needle is placed or removed, individuals may feel a mild prickling sensation, and the procedure usually takes no more than five minutes.
When examining a newborn, a healthcare practitioner will sanitize the baby's heel with alcohol and puncture it with a small needle. The practitioner will collect a few droplets of blood and cover the area with a bandage.
Are there any risks to the test?
After a blood test, you may experience mild discomfort or discoloration at the location where the needle was inserted, but these symptoms generally disappear rapidly.
The risk of harm to your infant from a needle prick test is minimal. Your baby may experience a slight pinching sensation when the heel is punctured, and a tiny bruise may emerge at the site, but these should dissipate promptly.
What do the results mean?
If the results show an abnormally high number of reticulocytes (reticulocytosis), this could indicate that:
- You have hemolytic anemia
- The child has a hemolytic illness of the newborn
If the reticulocyte count is lower than normal, it could suggest you have:
- Iron deficiency anemia
- Pernicious anemia
- Aplastic anemia
- Bone marrow failure
- Kidney disease
- Cirrhosis
These test results are frequently compared to those of other blood tests. Contact the medical professional if you have questions about your or your child's results.
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Book an AppointmentFrequently Asked Questions
No, special preparation is required for a reticulocyte count.
No, fasting is not required for a reticulocyte count.
No, a reticulocyte count is not painful.
A high reticulocyte count indicates that your bone marrow produces more red blood cells than normal.
No, a reticulocyte count cannot diagnose a specific disease, but it can provide important information regarding bone marrow-producing red blood cells.
Yes, a reticulocyte count can be done during pregnancy.
The frequency of a reticulocyte count depends on the underlying condition and the treatment being given.
No, a reticulocyte count cannot be done at home.
The cost of the reticulocyte count test is approximately Rs. 250.
