Lab comparison
Reticulocyte Count: Quest vs LabCorp vs BioReference, tube, code & requirements
. This page shows collection requirements for all three major reference labs in one view, so you don’t have to cross-check three portals.
Always verify against your lab’s current collection manual before drawing.
Every value on this page is verified by a nurse practitioner in active clinical practice, not scraped from an automated source.
| Requirement | Quest Diagnostics | LabCorp | BioReference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Test code | 793 | 005280 | 0141-2 |
| Primary tube | EDTA (lavender-top) tube | Lavender-top (EDTA) tube | Lavender top- EDTA |
| Specimen type | Whole blood full EDTA (lavender-top) tube - mix well by gentle inversion | Whole blood | 4 mL Lavender top- EDTA |
| Patient prep | None Specified | None Specified | None Specified |
| Minimum volume | Minimum volume Microtainer 0.5 mL • 1 mL whole blood EDTA tube | Minimum Volume 500 μL for Microtainer™ (capillary) specimens (Note: This volume does not allow for repeat testing.) | Qty 1 |
Frequently asked questions
What is the Quest Diagnostics order code for Reticulocyte Count?
The Quest Diagnostics order code for Reticulocyte Count is 793.
What tube color does LabCorp use for Reticulocyte Count?
LabCorp uses a Lavender-top (EDTA) tube for Reticulocyte Count.
Does Reticulocyte Count require fasting?
Reticulocyte Count patient prep: None Specified. Always confirm with the ordering lab before the draw.
Data provenance
Source: Quest Diagnostics specimen collection manual, LabCorp directory of services, and BioReference laboratory collection guide.
Verified by: a licensed nurse practitioner in active clinical practice. Values are reviewed against each lab’s published collection requirements. Always confirm against your lab’s current manual before drawing.
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Related: why lab specimens get rejected, and how to prevent it
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