Nucleated red blood cells are often reported in percent (number per 100 leukocytes). This may be hard to interpret since any change may reflect a change in the WBC count. Calculating the absolute nucleated red blood cell count is more useful.
Parameters:
(1) percent NRBCs per 100 leukocytes
(2) WBC count
absolute NRBC count =
= (percent) * (WBC count)
Interpretation:
• According to Green and Mimount the 90th percentile for the absolute NRBC count in normal neonates was 1,000 per µL (1 * 10^9/L).
• Nucleated red blood cells are not normally seen in the peripheral blood in older infants, children or adults.
Alternatively, the difference between a direct automated leukocyte count and the leukocyte count after adjustment for NRBCs (see above) should reflect the absolute NRBC count.
To read more or access our algorithms and calculators, please log in or register.
