Reticulocyte Count is drawn in a EDTA (lavender-top) tube at Quest, a Lavender-top (EDTA) tube at LabCorp, and a Lavender top- EDTA at BioReference.
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.
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| 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 | Not stated | 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.
Quest verified by: Mandi Boss B Franklin, Jul 26, 2026
LabCorp verified by: Mandi Boss B Franklin, Jul 26, 2026
BioReference verified by: Mandi Boss B Franklin, Jul 26, 2026
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