Interpretive Data:

This assay quantifies reticulated platelets using a nucleic acid specific dye. Its clinical utility is in the initial assessment of thrombocytopenic states to determine whether the thrombocytopenia is due to bone marrow hypoproduction or due to increased peripheral consumption e.g. secondary to immune destruction (platelet directed antibody), thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP), or disseminated intravascular destruction (DIC). The immature platelet fraction (%) due to peripheral destruction would be elevated. If the thrombocytopenia is secondary to marrow hypoproduction, the immature platelet fraction (%) will be low. An additional utility of this assay is to assess bone marow thrombopoiesis recovery following bone marrow transplantation or following chemotherapy with marrow suppression. An increased IPF% would indicate marrow recovery.