Laser immunonephelometry reference intervals for eight serum proteins in healthy children

Eight serum proteins were analyzed with the Behring nephelometer in samples from 479 healthy French children, ages three to 16 years. Girls had higher concentrations of IgM and albumin than boys had. Age appeared to be a main factor of variation for the proteins tested. Reference intervals are presented for IgG, IgA, IgM, albumin, transthyretin (prealbumin), retinol-binding protein, alpha 1-acid glycoprotein, and C-reactive protein. The significance of increased concentrations of C-reactive protein within a community is discussed.