Reticulocytes

Reticulocytes are young, immature, red blood cells. They are larger than more mature red blood cells and contain more hemoglobin. This indice is occasionally found on the complete blood count, or run as a separate indice. ​This test is underutilized but can be a useful tool to understand how bone marrow is producing RBCs.

Reticulocyte Testing

The reticulocyte blood test measures the number of reticulocytes in the bloodstream. This is sometimes found on the complete blood count (CBC) but not always.

Reticulocytes are nonnucleated young and immature red blood cells. They are released from the bone marrow and mature in the bloodstream. During erythropoiesis, RBCs go through several steps and changes to become nonnucleated RBCs.

These cells larger than mature RBCs, and increased production and release into the bloodstream will affect other red blood cell indices. These cells do not have nuclei but do have a residual reticulum that disappears as the cell matures.

Reticulocyte production is measured as a percentage of 1,000 RBCs. 

Reticulocytes in Pregnancy

​By 12 weeks of gestation, reticulocyte production increases 90%. By 34 weeks, it decreases to 15% overall increased production. 

The increased production of reticulocytes is approximately 4% to 7% for the first three days postpartum, then declines abruptly between days four and seven. At eight weeks postpartum, the production of reticulocytes increases again, then declines again at 12 weeks. The production of reticulocytes remains lower than average for two years postpartum, only then returning to prepregnancy production levels.

​Reticulocyte counts can be used to assess the treatment of anemia. Reticulocyte counts should increase within four to seven days of the start of anemia treatment if it is working.

High Reticulocytes in Pregnancy

There is limited data on the application of this indice in pregnancy.

Most Common Causes of High Reticulocytes in Pregnancy

• Acute Iron Deficiency
• Hypoxia
• Sleep Apnea/Snoring
• Hemolysis
• Myeloproliferative Diseases (Polycythemia)
• Thalassemia
• Excess Erythropoietin Production (See Erythropoietin Article)
• Internal Bleeding 

Low Reticulocytes in Pregnancy

There is limited data on the application of this indice in pregnancy. Please read the Red Blood Cell Count (RBC) Article. 

Most Common Causes of Low Reticulocytes in Pregnancy

Any nutritional deficiency or dysfunction that decreases the overall production of red blood cells can be a cause of decreased reticulocytes.

Please read the Red Blood Cell (RBC) article. 

​Don’t Miss Out!

Gain valuable skills with my pregnancy lab analysis course.

register today!

---

Copyright © 2024 Functional Maternity, all rights reserved.

Medical Disclaimer:
This content is for educational purposes only and is intended for licensed medical professionals. It is based on current research, subject to change, and not intended to diagnose, treat, or prevent any medical condition. This information does not replace consultation with a qualified healthcare provider. Seek professional medical evaluation and treatment from a licensed provider. Use of this information is at your own risk.​

---