Reticulocyte Count

Test ID: 

704402

CPT code:

85045

Clinical Use:

Evaluate erythropoietic activity which is increased in acute and chronic hemorrhage, and hemolytic anemias; evaluate erythropoietic response to antianemic therapy

Test Information:

Reticulocytes stained with a fluorescent reagent can be differentiated from mature red cells and other cell populations by light scatter, direct measurements, and opacity characteristics when using an automated hematology analyzer equipped with reticulocyte counting technology.

Contraindications

Specimen Type:

Whole blood

Requested Volume: 

Tube fill capacity

Minimum Volume: 

500 μL for Microtainer™ (capillary) specimens

Container Type: 

Lavender-top (EDTA) tube

Collection:

Invert tube immediately 8 to 10 times once tube is filled at time of collection.

Storage Instructions:

Refrigerate

Stability Requirements:

Expected Turnaround Time:

1 to 2 Days

Rejection Criteria

Hemolysis; specimen more than 72 hours old; clotted specimen; tube not filled with minimum volume; improper labeling; transfer tubes with whole blood; specimen diluted or contaminated with I.V. fluid; specimen drawn in any anticoagulant other than EDTA; specimen received with plasma removed