noun
- immature red blood cells that still contain some ribosomes and other cellular structures
Usage: medical; biology
Examples
- The blood test showed an elevated reticulocyte count.
- Reticulocytes mature into red blood cells within one to two days.
- A high number of reticulocytes may indicate the bone marrow is working harder to produce blood cells.
- The doctor ordered a reticulocyte count to assess bone marrow function.
- Reticulocytes can be identified under a microscope by their bluish appearance.
- Normal reticulocyte levels range from 0.5% to 2.5% of total red blood cells.