What do the results mean?
If your results show a higher than normal amount of reticulocytes (reticulocytosis), it may mean:
You have hemolytic anemia, a type of anemia in which red blood cells are destroyed faster than the bone marrow can replace them.
Your baby has hemolytic disease of the newborn, a condition that limits the ability of a baby's blood to carry oxygen to organs and tissues.
If your results show a lower than normal amount of reticulocytes, it may mean you have:
Iron deficiency anemia, a type of anemia that happens when you don't have enough iron in your body.
Pernicious anemia, a type of anemia caused by not getting enough of certain B vitamins (B12 and folate) in your diet, or when your body can't absorb enough B vitamins.
Aplastic anemia, a type of anemia that happens when the bone marrow isn't able to make enough blood cells.
Bone marrow failure, which may be caused by an infection or cancer.
Kidney disease
Cirrhosis, scarring of the liver
These test results are often compared with results of other blood tests. If you have questions about your results or your child's results, talk to your health care provider.
Learn more about laboratory tests, reference ranges, and understanding results.
