Hi my son ( 6 year old ), who has thalassemia minor, has reticulocyte count of 7. is it normal for somebody of this age withthalassemia minor.?

Yes: The reticulocytes are immature red cells. They are usually about 1% of the circulating red cell population. They are elevated in conditions of rapid blood turnover such as beta thalassemia. It is appropriate to establish a "normal" for each beta thal patient so variations can be properly judged. His typical reticulocyte count should be established (4-5% is norm). 7% could be alright for him.

No: A high reticulocyte count suggests that there is some destruction of red blood cells and the bone marrow is doing extra work replacing them.This is not seen with thal minor alone.Something else is going on.Discuss with your doctor.