Reticulocyte Count

Department of Haematology

Notes

• The number of immature red cells in the peripheral blood reflects the amount of erythropoietic activity
• Test performed at CGH and GRH.
• See also: Full Blood Count

Sample Requirements

2ml or 4ml EDTA sample.

One sample is sufficient for a Full Blood Count plus Reticulocytes

Turnaround Time

• Urgent: 60 minutes
• Routine: 2 hours

Sample Storage and Retention

• Pre analysis storage: do not store, send to laboratory within 4 hours.
• Sample retention by lab: EDTA samples are retained for a minimum of 48 hours at 2-10°C.

This test can be added on to a previous request as long as there is sufficient sample remaining and the sample is less than 48 hours old.

Reference Ranges