Test Code RETIC Reticulocyte Count, Blood
Performing Laboratory
MaineGeneral Medical CenterReference Values
RETICULOCYTE COUNTNewborn: ≤5% (expressed as a percentage of 1,000 RBCs)
Normal values at birth: 2-5%, falling to normal adult level by end of the second week.
Adult: 0.5-1.5%
IRF
0.2-0.4
Methodology
Includes immature reticulocyte fraction (IRF).Specimen Requirements
Specimen must arrive within 8 hours of draw if ambient, within 72 hours if refrigerated.
Draw blood in a lavender-top (EDTA) tube(s), and send 0.5 mL of EDTA whole blood. For pediatric specimen, draw a lavender-top (EDTA) MICROTAINER(S)®. (Clotted specimen is not acceptable.)
Note: Label specimen with patient’s name (first and last), date of birth, date and time of draw, and phlebotomist’s initials.