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Test Code RETIC Reticulocyte Count, Blood

Performing Laboratory

MaineGeneral Medical Center

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.

Test Classification and CPT Coding

85045

Methodology

Includes immature reticulocyte fraction (IRF).

Reference Values

RETICULOCYTE COUNT
Newborn:  ≤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

Day(s) Test Set Up

Monday through Sunday