Complete Blood Count (CBC) with Reticulocyte Count
CPT Code(s):
85027
Turnaround Time:
4 hours
Specimen Requirements
Preferred Specimen:
Whole Blood
Minimum Volume:
1.0 mL
Transport Container:
Lavender Top Tube
Transport Temperature:
Room Temperature
Collection Instructions:
Whole blood collected in lavender EDTA tube; inverted several times to mix blood with anticoagulant.
Rejection Criteria:
Hemolysis; clotted specimen; specimen drawn in any anticoagulant other than EDTA; specimen diluted or contaminated with IV fluid; tube not filled with minimum volume; improper labeling; transfer tubes with whole blood; specimen received with plasma removed (plasma is used for other testing)
Stability Criteria
Room Temperature:
24 hours
Refrigerated:
48 hours
Frozen:
Unacceptable
Clinical Significance
The Complete Blood Count (CBC) with Reticulocyte Count holds specific clinical significance and diagnostic use in the field of hematology. This test provides comprehensive information about the cellular components of the blood, including red blood cells, white blood cells, platelets, and also includes the measurement of reticulocytes, which are immature red blood cells.
The clinical significance and diagnostic use of CBC with Reticulocyte Count include:
1. Evaluation of Anemia: CBC with Reticulocyte Count is particularly useful in evaluating different types of anemia. By measuring the reticulocyte count, which reflects the production of new red blood cells by the bone marrow, the test helps differentiate between various causes of anemia, such as iron deficiency, vitamin B12 or folate deficiency, or bone marrow disorders. High reticulocyte counts may indicate an appropriate bone marrow response to anemia, while low counts suggest reduced red blood cell production.
2. Assessment of Bone Marrow Function: The Reticulocyte Count is an indicator of bone marrow function. An increased reticulocyte count suggests a compensatory response by the bone marrow to replenish red blood cells in response to anemia or blood loss. Conversely, a low reticulocyte count may indicate bone marrow dysfunction or suppression, potentially caused by factors like medication, chemotherapy, or bone marrow disorders.
3. Monitoring Response to Therapy: CBC with Reticulocyte Count is used to monitor the response to therapy in individuals with anemia. Serial measurements of the reticulocyte count can help determine the effectiveness of treatment, such as iron supplementation or erythropoietin therapy, in stimulating red blood cell production. Monitoring changes in reticulocyte counts over time helps healthcare providers assess the response to treatment and make appropriate adjustments, if necessary.
4. Evaluation of Hemolytic Anemia: Hemolytic anemia, a condition characterized by the premature destruction of red blood cells, can be assessed using CBC with Reticulocyte Count. By analyzing the reticulocyte count along with other parameters in the CBC, such as red blood cell indices and the presence of abnormal red blood cells, healthcare providers can identify hemolytic anemia and help determine its underlying cause.
5. Preoperative Assessment: CBC with Reticulocyte Count is sometimes performed as part of preoperative evaluations. It helps assess the patient's overall blood status, including red blood cell production, and can identify any potential anemia or abnormal reticulocyte counts that may impact surgical outcomes or guide the need for further investigations or precautions.
In summary, CBC with Reticulocyte Count has specific clinical significance in evaluating anemia, assessing bone marrow function, monitoring response to therapy, evaluating hemolytic anemia, and assisting in preoperative assessments. By analyzing various blood parameters, including the reticulocyte count, this test provides valuable information for clinical decision-making, enabling healthcare providers to diagnose and manage various hematological conditions and guide appropriate treatment strategies.