The reticulocyte count is used to evaluate erythrocyte bone marrow activity in anemia and other hematological conditions.
Reticulocytes are red blood cells that contain a basophilic network of granules or filaments, characteristic of immature cells of the red blood cell line. Reticulocytes are formed in the bone marrow, reach maturity after 1 day in the bloodstream, and are an indicator of bone marrow function.
Reticulocyte counting helps to differentiate bone marrow suppression from anemia, bleeding, hemolysis or radiation, and to assess bone marrow activity and response to therapeutic interventions.
Possible Interpretations of Pathological Values
- Increase: Acquired autoimmune hemolytic anemia, Di Guglielmo disease, erythroblastosis fetalis, hemolytic anemia, hemoglobinopathy C, chronic bleeding, hereditary spherocytosis, babies, leukemia, malaria, metastatic carcinoma, left atrium myxoma, paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria, polycythemia, acute posthaemorrhagic anemia, pregnancy, sickle cell anemia, major thalassemia, thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura, blood transfusions therapy, iron therapy anemia, vitamin B12 or folic acid deficiency.
- Decrease: Alcoholism, anemia (aplastic, hemolytic, iron deficiency, megaloblastic, malignant), anoxia, blood loss, bone marrow regeneration, chronic infection, myxedema, radiation therapy. Medications: carbamazepine, chloramphenicol.
Important Note
Laboratory test results are the most important parameter for the diagnosis and monitoring of all pathological conditions. 70%-80% of diagnostic decisions are based on laboratory tests. The correct interpretation of laboratory results allows a doctor to distinguish "healthy" from "diseased".
Laboratory test results should not be interpreted from the numerical result of a single analysis. Test results should be interpreted in relation to each individual case and family history, clinical findings, and the results of other laboratory tests and information. Your personal physician should explain the importance of your test results.
At Diagnostiki Athinon we answer any questions you may have about the test you perform in our laboratory and we contact your doctor to get the best possible medical care.
