Speaker
Description
Background
Reference intervals (RIs) are essential for interpreting laboratory results and guiding clinical decision-making. However, most pediatric RIs currently used in Ghana are derived from Western populations and may not reflect local physiological norms. This study aimed to establish age- and sex-specific haematological and biochemistry RIs for children in Asante Akim North, Ashanti Region, Ghana.
Method
A cross-sectional study was conducted among healthy children aged 0–17 years. Venous blood samples were analyzed for complete blood count, platelet indices, liver enzymes, renal markers, lipid profile, and glucose. Haematology analyses were performed using the Sysmex XN-350, and biochemistry testing was done with the Selectra Pro S analyzer. Non-parametric methods were used to determine the 2.5th and 97.5th percentile reference limits with 90% confidence intervals. Sex-specific RIs were established only for children aged 2–17 years due to sample size constraints.
Results
Significant sex differences (p < 0.05) were observed in WBC, absolute neutrophils, lymphocytes, basophil percentage, prothrombin time, creatinine, and GGT. Age-related differences were found in most parameters, highlighting the need for age partitioning. An out-of-range (OOR) analysis showed that 26% and 34% of participants had values outside the default Sysmex XN-350 and Agogo Presbyterian Hospital (APH) haematology RIs, respectively. Similarly, 32% had OOR biochemistry values when compared with APH RIs, mostly below the lower limits.
Conclusion
These findings suggest that current RIs in use may not be suitable for this population. The study provides locally relevant RIs to enhance diagnostic accuracy and improve pediatric healthcare in Ghana and comparable settings.
Keywords: Reference intervals, pediatrics, Ghana.