Reference control for use with manual and flow cytometric reticulocyte counting devices

摘要

A stable reticulocyte reference control which may be used with both manual and flow cytometric reticulocyte counting devices is provided. The reference control contains erythrocytes loaded with nucleic acids or polyanions capable of binding with a cationic dye. The loaded erythrocytes are suspended in an aqueous preserving medium. Methods of making and using the reticulocyte reference control are also provided.