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Test Code
RETC
Test Name
Reticulocyte Count, Automated
CPT Codes
85045
Included Tests
  • Percent Reticulocytes
  • Absolute Reticulocytes
Expected Turnaround Time
1 day
Clinical Utility

Assessing erythropoietic bone marrow activity in anemia and other hematologic conditions.

Specimen and Container Info

Specimen Type: Whole Blood

Preferred Collection Container: Lavender Top (EDTA)

Alternate Collection Container: Microtainer, Lavender Top (EDTA) 

Desired Specimen Volume: 1mL

Alternate Specimen Volume: 0.5mL in Microtainer
Collection Instructions

Invert tube 8 - 10 times immediately after tube is filled at the time of collection.
Transport Instructions

Transport to the laboratory at room temperature within 8 hours, if testing cannot be performed within 8 hours of collection transport to the laboratory refrigerated. 
Stability Requirements

Room Temperature

8 hours

Refrigerated

72 hours
Causes for Rejection
  • Clotted specimen
  • Specimen contaminated with IV fluid
  • Quantity not sufficient for testing
Methodology
Automated Analyzer
Reference Intervals

Hematology Reference Intervals
Performing Location
Cedar Crest Hospital, Hazleton Hospital, Hecktown Oaks Hospital, Muhlenberg Hospital, Pocono Hospital, Roble Road Core Laboratory, Schuylkill Hospital
Alternate Names
  • Retic
  • Retic Count
Testing Schedule
Routine daily, STAT testing available
The American Medical Association (AMA) Current Procedural Terminology (CPT) codes published by HNL Lab Medicine are guidelines and are intended for informational purposes only. CPT coding is the exclusive responsibility of the billing entity. View the Terms.
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