[Demonstration of reticulocytes and three-dimensional presentation of blood cells by means of reflexion contrast (author's transl)].

Reticulocytes and erythrocytes are distinguishable in Giemsa-stained blood smears by means of reflexion contrast, and adjunct to a reflected-light microscope. The surface topography of red cells can be quantitatively analyzed; it is directly visible in oblique illumination after decentralization of the central diaphragm. Reticulocytes are about 15% larger and show less deviations from the circular form and a less deep deviations from the circular form and a less deep central depression than mature erythrocytes. After supravital staining with brilliant cresyl blue, 72% more red cells can be diagnosed as being reticulocytes in reflexion contrast than in bright field.