Longitudinal variation of hemoglobin and reticulocytes in elite rowers

Abstract

Longitudinal monitoring of athlete's hematologic parameters holds considerable promise as a strategy to detect and thereby deter illicit blood doping. This study documents temporal changes of hemoglobin concentration (Hb) and reticulocyte counts in elite rowers. The 'within subject' variation in rowers was comparable to that of athletes from other sports. Reticulocyte results were dependent on the type of instrument used.