MLT GlobeReticulocyte count
Hematology · also called Retic count, Absolute reticulocyte count, RPI
What it measures
Measures young red cells recently released from the marrow. It shows whether the marrow is responding properly to anemia, separating production problems from blood loss or hemolysis.
Specimen and preparation
- Specimen: Whole blood (EDTA)
- Tube: Lavender top
Reference range
| Group | Range |
|---|---|
| Adult (%) | 0.5–2.5 % |
| Adult (absolute) | 25–100 ×10⁹/L |
| Newborn (%) | 2–6 % |
Reference ranges differ between laboratories, methods and populations. Always use the range printed on your own lab report.
Causes of high values
- Hemolytic anemia
- Acute blood loss (after 3–5 days)
- Response to iron, B12 or folate therapy
- Sickle cell disease
Causes of low values
- Iron, B12 or folate deficiency before treatment
- Aplastic anemia or marrow infiltration
- Chronic kidney disease (low EPO)
- Pure red cell aplasia or parvovirus B19
Method
Supravital staining (new methylene blue) with manual count, or automated fluorescent flow cytometry
Good to know
Correct the percentage for the degree of anemia (reticulocyte production index) before interpreting. Absolute counts are more reliable than percentages.
Related tests
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