• A regenerative response by the bone marrow is best indicated by increased numbers of immature erythrocytes, better known as reticulocytes. • These are cells that have recently entered the peripheral circulation; increases are seen along with polychromasia. • A reticulocyte has decreased hemoglobin content in relation to increased volume as compared with a mature red blood cell (RBC). • Reticulocytes are larger and contain ribosomes, which disappear when the RBC is fully mature. • In species with a nucleated RBC, immature erythrocytes are seen as rounder cells with a bluer cytoplasm, and the nuclear chromatin appears as more dense and scattered. • In some species, small quantities of reticulocytes are a normal finding. A regenerative response to anemia should result in a greater number of reticulocytes than are seen during health. • It typically takes 3 to 5 days before you can see a response to anemia, with a peak response noted after 7 to 10 days. Reticulocyte counts are expressed as a percentage of red cells, thus they can be falsely elevated by decreased numbers of red blood cells. Reticulocytosis can be indicative of hemolysis or hemorrhage. Reticulocytosis can be present with or without the presence of anemia.
Reticulocyte Count
Physiology
Veterian Key
Fastest Veterinary Medicine Insight Engine
