Immature Reticulocyte Fraction
IRF
Description
"Immature Reticulocyte Fraction (IRF)" test measures the proportion of immature reticulocytes—young red blood cells—in your bloodstream to evaluate bone marrow activity. It’s often used to monitor anemia, assess recovery from blood loss, or evaluate treatment effectiveness. High IRF levels suggest active red blood cell production, while low levels may indicate reduced marrow function. Doctors use this test to refine treatment plans. Regular IRF monitoring supports anemia management and helps track bone marrow recovery over time.
Category
Blood Cells
Procedure
Invasive
Sample Type
Blood – Whole Blood
Units
Percentage
Procedure Category
Blood Draw
Test Group
Hematology Group, Blood Count Differentials Group
Test Group Description
Blood Count Differentials Group: This group comprises tests essential for evaluating the different types of blood cells, offering detailed insights into blood cell composition, and aiding in the diagnosis of various blood disorders. Hematology Group: Tests within this group focus on evaluating various aspects of blood health and function. These assessments provide insights into red blood cells, white blood cells, platelets, and other components of the blood.
Optimal Range
For Men:
Conventional Unit: 3.50–10.00%
SI Unit: Not Applicable
For Women:
Conventional Unit: 2.50–9.00%
SI Unit: Not Applicable
Normal Range
For Men:
Conventional Unit: 3.00–15.90%
SI Unit: Not Applicable
For Women:
Conventional Unit: 2.30–13.40%
SI Unit: Not Applicable
Results That Differ From The Norm (Direct and Indirect Causes)
Abnormal results may indicate:
Chronic infections
Chemotherapy (Treatment involving cytotoxic drugs)
Chronic kidney disease (Long-term impairment of kidney function)
Erythropoietin deficiency (Low levels of the hormone erythropoietin)
Folate deficiency anemia (Anemia caused by inadequate folate levels)
Gastrointestinal bleeding (Bleedin...
Key Reasons For Testing
Bone Marrow Function: Evaluates abnormalities in marrow health and erythropoiesis.
Anemia Evaluation: Differentiates anemia types like iron-deficiency or hemolytic anemia.
Hematopoietic Recovery: Monitors marrow response after chemotherapy or transplant.
Therapy Response: Assesses treatment effectiveness for anemia or related conditions.
Hemolytic Disorders: Detects increased red cell turnover in hemolytic conditions.
Erythropoietic Activity: Measures marrow's compensatory response to anemia or stress, providing diagnostic and prognostic value.
Health Status Conditions It May Be Used To Assess
Currently, this test is not directly associated with any conditions listed on the Health Status page. However, it may be included as part of a broader set of tests linked to specific health conditions.
Some Prominent Medical Labs That May Offer This Test
Please note that this particular test has not been associated with any of the listed prominent medical labs. We recommend enquiring with your private physician or nearest hospital to determine where this specific test can be performed.
References
Important Note
Any medical procedure yielding results outside the norm may be directly or indirectly linked to the conditions outlined on this page. Various factors, including genetics, medication and supplement usage, recent illnesses, pregnancy, pre-test eating, smoking, and stress, can impact the test's outcome. Additionally, factors like false positives, false negatives, inaccurate analyses, and others can influence results.
Reference ranges, which help healthcare professionals interpret medical tests, may vary depending on age, gender, and other factors. They may also differ between laboratories due to variations in instruments and methods used. Optimal ranges are designed for preventive purposes, aiming to identify trends and potential risks early, while normal ranges reflect conventional laboratory values indicating no current disease or pathology. Your healthcare practitioner may have specific reasons for testing that deviate from the usual or may interpret results differently based on individual circumstances. Proper interpretation typically involves considering clinical findings and other diagnostic tests. Hence, it is crucial to provide your healthcare professionals with a comprehensive medical history, consult with them for result interpretation, and follow their guidance for potential re-testing or additional diagnostics.
Disclaimer
This content is provided solely for informative and educational purposes. It is not intended as a substitute for medical advice or treatment from a personal physician. Regarding the interpretation of their medical test results and/or specific health questions, it is recommended that all readers and viewers consult their physicians or other qualified health professionals. The publisher is not responsible for any adverse health effects that may result from reading or following the information in this educational content. Before beginning any nutrition, supplement, or lifestyle program, all viewers, especially those taking prescription or over-the-counter medications, should consult their physician or health care practitioner.
Please note that while prominent lab names are included in this content, we cannot guarantee that these labs offer all the tests mentioned. For confirmation, individuals should contact the labs directly or consult their medical practitioners. The information provided reflects general knowledge at the time of publication and may not include recent updates or emerging research. Readers should verify details with qualified professionals to ensure the most up-to-date and accurate guidance.
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