Reiticulocyte Production Index Test

The reticulocyte production index (RPI) is a kind of blood test used to diagnose anemia. In the case of anemia, a patient’s red blood cells are depleted, thereby increasing the reticulocyte count. Reticulocytes refer to the red blood cells that are newly produced. This test is usually done as a follow up to the CBC test. A patient is asked to undergo RPI in case he suffers from symptoms like fatigue, paleness, chronic blood loss after trauma, disorders of bone marrow, bone marrow transplant, kidney and liver disorders, medication and chemotherapy.

There is no special preparation required to undergo this test. As this is a blood test, make sure to wear loose and comfortable clothes while going for the test. In some cases, fasting might be required, in some cases avoiding certain food and drinks will be required and some patient’s might be asked to avoid taking certain medication. The doctor in charge will let you know accordingly. Also in case you have any medical conditions like fainting or hemophilia and in case you are prescribed any OTC drugs, make sure to tell this to your doctor.

The RPI test is used when the doctor needs to learn: How the bone marrow in your body is functioning If your body producing enough red blood cells Diagnose and differentiate between different types of anemia What progress the patient is making after he undergoes radiation, chemotherapy, bone marrow transplant or medical treatment for iron deficiency

This test is like a normal blood test which includes the following steps: The technician will swab the area to be injected with an antiseptic to eliminate microorganisms from contaminating the test For the vein to be visible, an elastic band is tightly wrapped on the upper portion of the arm which causes the veins to swell A needle is inserted in this area and blood is drawn out Once enough blood is collected, they will remove the needle from your arm To prevent further bleeding, a gauze is applied or cotton is given to the patient This blood sample is then sent to the lab for further examination.