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Test Code Billings Clinic: 1112 Reticulocyte Count, Blood

Performing Laboratory

Billings Clinic Laboratory: Hematology

Useful For

  • As a follow up to abnormal results on a CBC, RBC count, hemoglobin or hematocrit, to help determine the cause
  • To determine if the bone marrow is functioning properly and responding adequately to the body's need for red blood cells (RBCs)
  • To help detect and distinguish between different types of anemia
  • To monitor response to treatment, such as that for iron-deficiency anemia
  • To monitor bone marrow function following treatments such as chemotherapy
  • To monitor function following a bone marrow transplant

Methodology

Optical

Specimen Requirements

  • Specimen must arrive within 48 hours of draw (refrigerated).
  • Draw a full, lavender-top (EDTA) tube
  • Send 5 mL of unprocessed EDTA whole blood promptly.
  • Specimen is good for 48 hours refrigerated or 24 hours ambient.
  • EDTA tube must be properly filled.
  • Immediately after draw invert several times to mix blood.
  • Do not centrifuge.

Reference Values

% Reticulocytes:

0.9-2.9%


Absolute reticulocytes: 

28-174 x 109/L

 

Ret-HE:

29.3-35.8 pg

 

IRF:

Males: 2.3-13.4%

Females: 3-15.9%

Day(s) Test Set Up

Daily

Test Classification and CPT Coding

85046 - reticulocyte count, automated with other parameters
 

LCD or NCD test. ICD-10 code is required for this test. When appropriate, obtain a properly executed ABN and submit the ABN with test order(s). See “Medical Necessity and Advanced Beneficiary Notice (ABN) Policy and Form” under Resources for a copy of a form and additional information.

LOINC Code Information

Reporting Name LOINC Code
Reticulocyte % 17849-1
Reticulocyte Abs 60474-4
Ret-HE 71694-4
IRF 33516-6

 

Profile/Testing Information

Profile Information:
% Reticulocytes Absolute Reticulocytes
Reticulocyte Hgb Equivalent (Ret-HE) Immature reticulocyte fraction (IRF)