Reticulocyte Count

Reticulocyte Count Test is performed to measure the number of reticulated red blood cells in 

your body. It can help your healthcare provider understand whether your bone marrow is 

producing an adequate amount of red blood cells. This test can be helpful in figuring out 

whether you have illnesses that affect your blood, like haemolytic anaemia, a condition where 

RBCs are destroyed at a faster rate than they are made.

Reticulocyte Count Test Overview

Reticulocyte Count Test is performed to measure the number of reticulated red blood cells in 

your body. It can help your healthcare provider understand whether your bone marrow is 

producing an adequate amount of red blood cells. This test can be helpful in figuring out 

whether you have illnesses that affect your blood, like haemolytic anaemia, a condition where 

RBCs are destroyed at a faster rate than they are made. 

Your doctor may order this test to distinguish between different types of anaemia, like 

nutritional, haemolytic, and aplastic anaemias. This test can also be used to monitor your health 

after you undergo a bone marrow transplant, radiation therapy or chemotherapy.

Symptoms to check for going for the Reticulocyte Count Test

Your healthcare provider may also order this test if you show the following signs and symptoms

of anaemia:

• Headache and chest pain

• Shortness of breath

• Irregular heartbeats

• Cold feet and hands

• Light-headedness or dizziness

• Yellowish or pale skin

You might have to go for Reticulocyte Count Test if you had a bone marrow transplant or radiation therapy, or chemotherapy for cancer. 

Prerequisite for the Reticulocyte Count Test

Tell your doctor if you have a history of fainting, haemophilia, or any other medical conditions 

before undergoing this test.