🔬 What is the Test?
The Absolute Reticulocyte Count Test measures the number of reticulocytes (young, immature red blood cells) in circulation. Reticulocytes are produced in the bone marrow and help determine if the body is producing enough red blood cells (RBCs).
📊 Normal Ranges:
Adults: 50,000 - 100,000 cells/µL
Newborns: 100,000 - 300,000 cells/µL
Low Reticulocyte Count: <50,000 cells/µL (May indicate bone marrow dysfunction)
High Reticulocyte Count: >100,000 cells/µL (May indicate increased RBC production due to anemia, blood loss, or hemolysis)
🩺 Purpose of the Test:
✅ Assess bone marrow function and RBC production
✅ Help diagnose and monitor anemia (iron-deficiency, aplastic, hemolytic anemia)
✅ Monitor recovery after blood loss or bone marrow transplant
✅ Evaluate response to treatments (iron therapy, erythropoietin, or chemotherapy)
🧪 When is it Recommended?
🔹 Unexplained fatigue or weakness
🔹 Symptoms of anemia (pale skin, shortness of breath, dizziness)
🔹 After chemotherapy, bone marrow transplant, or iron therapy
🔹 Chronic diseases affecting blood cell production (kidney disease, sickle cell disease)
📝 How is the Test Done?
1️⃣ A blood sample is drawn from a vein.
2️⃣ The lab analyzes the percentage & absolute count of reticulocytes.
3️⃣ Results help diagnose anemia types and bone marrow activity.
⚠️ What Do Abnormal Results Mean?
📈 High Reticulocyte Count:
Hemolytic anemia (destruction of RBCs)
Recent blood loss
Recovery from anemia or bone marrow suppression
📉 Low Reticulocyte Count:
Bone marrow disorders (aplastic anemia, leukemia)
Chronic diseases (kidney failure, liver disease)
Iron, B12, or folate deficiency
📌 Infographic Design Ideas:
✔ Medical-themed visuals with blue, red & white colors
✔ Illustration of reticulocytes in the bloodstream
✔ Table with normal vs. abnormal values
✔ Icons for anemia, bone marrow function, and blood disorders