Reticulocyte Count Profile

Immature retic fract test is done to assess bone marrow activity. High and low levels of reticulocyte counts are associated with many conditions i.e. nutritional deficiency, and diseases affecting the bone marrow, liver and kidney.

IRF is used to monitor stem cell regeneration after a bone marrow transplant. Bone marrow activity after chemotherapy, vitamin B12/ folate/ iron therapy

• Assessing erythropoietic bone marrow activity in anemia and other hematologic conditions.
• This test is done to assess bone marrow activity.
• High and low reticulocyte counts are associated with many conditions, such as nutritional deficiency and diseases affecting the bone marrow, liver and kidney.
• It is also necessary to conduct this test after a bone marrow transplant to monitor stem cell regeneration.
• To monitor bone marrow activity which might change significantly after chemotherapy or after vitamin B12, folate, and iron therapy.

Immature retic fract test measures reticulocytes as % of total cells, absolute reticulocyte counts and fraction of immature reticulocytes

Immature retic fract test requires a blood sample. A tourniquet (elastic) band is placed tightly on the upper arm. The patient is then asked to make a fist. This helps in the build-up of blood filling the veins. The skin is disinfected before needle insertion and the blood sample is collected in a vacutainer

High reticulocyte count is seen in bleeding, Erythroblastosis fetalis, Hemolytic anaemia, Kidney
disease with increased erythropoietin production. 
Low reticulocyte count is seen in bone marrow failure, Cirrhosis of the liver, Folate deficiency, Iron deficiency, Kidney disease with decreased erythropoietin production, Radiation therapy, Vitamin B-12 deficiency

The reticulocyte count profile aims to measure the number of immature red blood cells in our body. It helps diagnose and monitor various types of anaemia or abnormally low levels of red blood cells. It also can help identify certain rare diseases and conditions that affect red blood cell production. Additionally, it is used to assess how well our body responds to anaemia treatment.

Erythroblastosis fetalis occurs when there is an incompatibility between the blood of the mother and the fetus. This can lead to hemolytic anaemia, a condition in which the red blood cells are destroyed faster than they can be produced. The reticulocyte count profile can be used to diagnose these conditions.

Bone marrow failure is when the bone marrow doesn't produce enough blood cells. Various things, including certain diseases, genetic disorders, and certain medications, can cause this. Bone marrow failure can be fatal if not treated.

It is well known that alcohol consumption can lead to dehydration. However, many may not know that it can also decrease the number of red blood cells (RBCs) in the body. This decrease in RBCs can cause anaemia, a condition characterized by a low reticulocyte count. Alcoholics are more likely to have anaemia than non-alcoholics, which is one of the many reasons excessive alcohol consumption is discouraged.

The risks associated with this test are minimal. However, as with any medical procedure, there is always a risk of infection or other complications if the procedure isn't done correctly or if we have a weakened immune system.

The reticulocyte count profile test requires a small sample of our blood. The sample will be examined under a microscope to count the number of reticulocytes present. In some cases, additional tests may need to be performed to get more detailed information about our health.

Other tests that may be ordered, along with a reticulocyte count profile test, include a complete blood count (CBC), a peripheral smear, and iron studies. These tests further assess our health and help diagnose anaemia or other conditions.

If we have any of the following symptoms, it is recommended that we get the reticulocyte count profile test. 

• Jaundice: Yellowing of the skin or whites of the eyes. 
• Pale skin: We may look like we have sunburn even if we haven't been in the sun. 
• Fatigue: Feeling tired or weak all the time. 
• Abdominal pain: Pain in our stomach area. 

Dark urine: Our urine may look brown, red, or tea-coloured.

Retic Count Test

Reticulocyte Count Test

% Retic

% Reticulocyte Count

Immature reticulocyte fraction (IRF)

Absolute Retic Count

Anyone who is suspected of having anaemia, bone marrow disorders, or other conditions affecting red blood cell production may be advised to undergo the Retic count test. Your doctor will determine if the test is necessary based on your symptoms and medical history.

The reticulocyte count test helps diagnose and monitor anaemia, evaluate bone marrow function, assess the effectiveness of treatments, and identify underlying conditions affecting red blood cell production. This information aids in tailoring treatment plans and monitoring progress.

The frequency of Retic count test depends on your clinical condition and your doctor's recommendation. It may be required periodically to monitor treatment progress or check for changes in your condition.

There is no specific time requirement for the Reticulocyte count test. You can get the test done at any time as prescribed by your doctor. Many diagnostic centres offer sample collection services from early morning to late evening.

No, fasting is not required for the Retic count test. You can undergo the test at any time without any specific dietary restrictions.

There are no specific precautions or preparations needed before the Reticulocyte count test. However, it's advisable to inform your doctor about any medications you are taking, as some may affect the test results.

The primary parameter in the Retic count test is the percentage or absolute count of reticulocytes in the blood. Additional parameters may include the Reticulocyte Production Index (RPI) and other related haematological indices.

The Reticulocyte count test involves taking blood sample from a vein in your arm using a small needle. The sample is then analysed in a lab to count the number of reticulocytes present.

The Retic count test should be done as prescribed by your doctor, typically when there is a suspicion of anaemia or other blood disorders, or to monitor the effectiveness of ongoing treatments.

A positive result (high reticulocyte count) in the Reticulocyte count test may indicate conditions such as haemolytic anaemia, blood loss, or an overactive bone marrow. A low count may suggest bone marrow failure or other blood disorders.

The Retic count test itself takes only a few minutes for the blood sample collection. The analysis of the sample in the laboratory may take a few hours to a day, depending on the diagnostic centre's procedures.

The reports for Reticulocyte count test are usually available within 24 hours after the sample collection. However, this may vary depending on diagnostic centre and complexity of the test.