A reticulocyte count is a kind of blood test that basically measures how fast reticulocyte (a kind of RBC without a nucleus) is made by the bone marrow and then released into the blood. Reticulocyte are immature RBCs and they are in the blood for two days before developing into a complete or mature RBC. So in other words, a reticulocyte count helps in measuring the number and percentages of new RBC in the body. It is also known as Retic Count, Reticulocyte Percent, Reticulocyte Index, and Corrected Reticulocyte.
There is no special preparation required for a reticulocyte count. One can easily follow their daily routine prior to the test. No fasting is required unless advised by the doctor. This test is conducted in health care centre, doctor's lab, hospitals, nursing homes etc. The blood sample is obtained by inserting a small needle into the veins of the arm through the skin. It is recommended that the person collecting the sample should wear a half-sleeve shirt so that it becomes easier to collect the sample. Even if one is wearing a full-sleeved shirt, it is often recommended to roll the sleeves.
Reticulocytes are mainly the newly-produced or immature red blood cells without a nucleus. They primarily form and mature in the bone marrow before being discharged into the stream of blood in a human body. The uses of reticulocyte count are as follows - It helps in measuring the new RBC count which, in turn, evaluates the conditions that affect the red blood cells like anemia, bone marrow disorders etc.
It is a report that evaluates the performance of the bone marrow. A reticulocyte count is required when a medical practitioner wants to evaluate the function of the bone marrow. It gives information regarding RBC count, haemoglobin and the functionality of the bone marrow. Depending upon the result further advice is provided by the doctor.A reticulocyte count helps in measuring the count of new RBC and blood reticulocyte count in the in the blood. This reticulocyte count includes a set of methods which are as follows - Firstly, an alcohol pad is used to clean the skin where the needle would be inserted. Then, the needle is inserted into the skin piercing the vein from where blood is to be obtained. The sample is sealed with the name of the patient on the label and is then sent to the laboratory for detailed study.
| Type | Gender | Age-Group | Value |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Reticulocyte
|
Unisex
|
All age groups
|
0.5-1.5%
|
Cyclic vomiting syndrome (CVS) is characterized by periodic bouts of nausea and vomiting that happens at cyclical intervals. It affects all ages, but is more common in children. The condition is quite stereotypical in that there are paroxysms or bouts of vomiting that is recurrent and follows days of normal health.
Causes: There is no definite reason identified, but it is said to have a strong hereditary correlation. Studies have shown mitochondrial heteroplasmic (abnormal growth of mitochondria, which is a cellular component) to be one of the factors that can lead to CVS. The genetic correlation, however, is very difficult to establish, specifically because vomiting and nausea are common symptoms that occur with most conditions in children. And CVS is most commonly noted with conditions like infections and emotional excitement. Infection could be either tooth decay or sinusitis or anything else. Lack of sleep, anxiety, holidays, allergies, overeating, certain foods, menstruation - a host of factors have been shown to induce CVS. There is also a strong association with migraine and conditions that lead to excessive production of stress hormones.
Symptoms: The syndrome (a group of symptoms) usually has 4 phases:
Treatment: Treatment again depends on the severity and the phase at which it is being recognized. If a child has repetitive bouts, then the parent and the doctor would have identified a pattern to it.
However, in most cases of childhood CSV, the pattern will be identified and that helps in better management, both the child/parent and the podiatrist. If you wish to discuss about any specific problem, you can consult a Pediatrician.
If you have anemia, your blood does not carry enough oxygen to the rest of your body. The most common cause of anemia is not having enough iron. Your body needs iron to make hemoglobin. Hemoglobin is an iron-rich protein that gives the red color to blood. It carries oxygen from the lungs to the rest of the body.
Anemia has three main causes: blood loss, lack of red blood cell production, and high rates of red blood cell destruction.
Conditions that may lead to anemia include
Anemia can make you feel tired, cold, dizzy, and irritable. You may be short of breath or have a headache.
Your doctor will diagnose anemia with a physical exam and blood tests. Treatment depends on the kind of anemia you have.
Rush to emergency in a hospital if you have crushing feeling in the chest, you vomit blood and your stools are black or bloody.
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