Reference Intervals for CMP analytes in Cord Blood and Infants

Establishing age and gender specific RIs is crucial for screening, diagnosis and monitoring of many pediatric diseases and disorders. However, the existing RIs for CMP analytes of pediatric population may not be used for Ethiopian pediatric population in one or another way.The objective of this study is to establish reference intervals for comprehensive metabolic panel analytes in cord blood and infants. A total of 117 infants and newborns were included and their samples were analyzed in TASH laboratory. All pre-analytical, analytical and post-analytical aspects were thoroughly controlled. A robust, CLSI/ IFCC recommended, method was used for the determination RIs. Combined RIs for newborns and infants were established for albumin, AST, ALP, DB, TB, creatinine, urea/BUN, Na+, K+ and Cl-. But, separated RIs were indicated for glucose, TP, ALT and GGT. Some maternal, neonatal and infantile factors were identified to affect the values of analytes.Almost all analytes were completely different from previously reported values for other target population of similar age group; text book and kit insert values. These values were also different from the ones provided for adult populations.