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Pediatric reference ranges for osteocalcin measured by the Immulite analyzer
H H Seydewitz1, M Henschen, W Kühnel
1Univ-Kinderklinik, Freiburg, Germany. sey@kikli.ukl.uni-freiburg.de
Insights
This study presents pediatric reference ranges for osteocalcin using a new automated assay. Osteocalcin levels peak during puberty, differing between girls and boys, before declining to adult levels.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Pediatric Endocrinology
Background:
- Osteocalcin is a key bone-forming protein.
- Establishing pediatric reference ranges is crucial for growth assessment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To establish pediatric reference ranges for osteocalcin.
- To evaluate a new automated chemiluminescent immunoassay for osteocalcin measurement.
Main Methods:
- Osteocalcin levels were measured in 627 children (newborns to 18 years).
- A fully automated, chemiluminescent immunometric assay on the Immulite analyzer was used.
Main Results:
- Pediatric osteocalcin levels are higher than adult levels.
- Peak osteocalcin concentrations occur during puberty (approx. 12 years in girls, 14 years in boys).
- Levels decline rapidly after puberty towards adult values.
Conclusions:
- The new assay provides reliable osteocalcin measurements in children.
- Pubertal growth significantly impacts osteocalcin levels in a sex-specific manner.
- These reference ranges aid in pediatric bone health evaluation.
Abstract:
Pediatric reference ranges for osteocalcin measured by a new, fully automated, chemiluminescent immunometric assay on the Immulite immunoanalyzer are presented. Samples from 627 children, ranging from newborns to 18 years of age, were measured. Osteocalcin values are generally higher in children than in adults, highest levels being reached during the puberty growth spurt at about 12 years in girls and 14 years in boys, thereafter rapidly declining towards adult levels.