Specimen:

Whole Blood

Collection Medium:

Minimum:

Full draw; any size lavender top; (or fingerstick)

Testing
Schedule:

24 hrs/day, 7 days a week, including holidays.

Analytic Time:

1 hour (upon receipt in laboratory)

Reference Range:

Age                     Absolute Reticulocyte Range
      1 - 3 Days*            77 - 283 K/mm3
      4 - 30 Days*           14 - 159 K/mm3
     31 - 60 Days*           28 - 201 K/mm3
60 Days - Adult              12 - 130 K/mm3
*Full Term Infant

Comments:

A reticulocyte count can usually be added to any CBC sample <24 hours 
old.

Methodology:

Flow Cytometry
Reticulocyte counts are performed using flow cytometry method.  The 
RNA/DNA in the Reticulocytes is stained and the stained cells are then 
detected and enumerated on the basis of a two-dimensional distribution 
of the forward scattered light and lateral fluorescent light.

Sample
Processing:

Submit whole blood in original container.
Do Not Centrifuge.

Sample
Storage:

Refrigerate.

Transport
Instructions:

Place specimen into zip-lock type bag, seal bag.
Place requisition into outside pocket of bag.
Transport in cooler with refrigerated coolant packs.

CPT Code:

85045