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Test ID RTIC Reticulocytes, Blood

Useful For

Assessing erythropoietic bone marrow activity in anemia and other hematologic conditions

Method Name

Flow Cytometry

Reporting Name

Reticulocytes, B

Specimen Type

Whole Blood EDTA

Specimen must arrive within 72 hours of draw.

 

Container/Tube: Lavender top (EDTA)

Specimen Volume: 3 mL

Forms: If not ordering electronically, complete, print, and send a Benign Hematology Test Request Form (T755) with the specimen (http://www.mayomedicallaboratories.com/it-mmfiles/benign-hematology-test-request-form.pdf)

Specimen Minimum Volume

1.5 mL/0.25 mL in Microtainer

Specimen Stability Information

Specimen Type Temperature Time
Whole Blood EDTA Refrigerated 72 hours

Clinical Information

Reticulocytes are immature erythrocytes (RBC) that have been released into the peripheral blood from the bone marrow after extrusion of their nucleus. The reticulocyte contains residual polyribosomes used in the formation of hemoglobin in the developing erythrocyte.

 

The reticulocyte count is a measure of the number of RBCs delivered by the bone marrow. It is elevated with active erythropoiesis such as regeneration, and is decreased in hypoplastic or deficiency conditions such as vitamin B12 deficiency.

Reference Values

% Reticulocytes: 0.77-2.36%

Absolute reticulocytes: 38.1-112.6 x 10(9)/L

Cautions

Clotted specimens yield unreliable results and are unacceptable for analysis.

Day(s) Performed

Monday through Sunday; Continuously

Report Available

1 day

Performing Laboratory

Mayo Medical Laboratories in Rochester

Test Classification

This test has been cleared or approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and is used per manufacturer's instructions. Performance characteristics were verified by Mayo Clinic in a manner consistent with CLIA requirements.

CPT Code Information

85045

NY State Approved

Yes