Because the reticulocyte count is expressed as a percentage of total RBCs, it must be corrected according to the extent of anemia with the following formula: reticulocyte % × (patient Hct/normal Hct) = corrected reticulocyte count.

Why do we calculate corrected reticulocyte count?

The reticulocyte production index (RPI), also called a corrected reticulocyte count (CRC), is a calculated value used in the diagnosis of anemia. This calculation is necessary because the raw reticulocyte count is misleading in anemic patients.

What is the difference between reticulocyte count and absolute reticulocyte count?

The laboratory “reticulocyte count” is actually a percentage. The absolute count corrects for the level of anemia, and the reticulocyte index determines if the reticulocyte count is appropriate for the level of anemia.