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Red cell distribution width (RDW) in the newborn: normative data
Alparslan Tonbul1, Cuneyt Tayman, Ferhat Catal
1Department of Neonatology, Fatih University Faculty of Medicine, Ankara, Turkey.
Journal of Clinical Laboratory Analysis
|November 17, 2011
Summary
Red blood cell distribution width (RDW) is higher in preterm newborns (≤34 weeks) compared to term newborns (≥35 weeks). These RDW values can aid in diagnosing neonatal hematologic conditions.
Area of Science:
- Neonatal Medicine
- Hematology
Background:
- Red blood cell distribution width (RDW) is a measure of the variation in red blood cell size.
- Establishing normal RDW ranges in newborns is crucial for accurate diagnosis and management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the normal range of red blood cell distribution width (RDW) in term and preterm neonates.
- To assess the influence of gestational age on RDW values in newborns.
Main Methods:
- A cohort of 1,594 newborns was analyzed.
- Infants were categorized into two groups based on gestational age: ≤34 weeks (Group 1) and ≥35 weeks (Group 2).
- RDW, along with other hematological parameters, was compared between the groups.
Main Results:
- Newborns in Group 1 (≤34 weeks) exhibited a higher mean RDW (17.8 ± 2.1) compared to Group 2 (≥35 weeks) (16.7 ± 1.6).
- RDW values were significantly higher in infants between 32-34 weeks gestation compared to those aged 35-36 and 37-42 weeks.
- A statistically significant difference (P<0.05) was observed in RDW between the two main groups.
Conclusions:
- RDW values are elevated in preterm newborns (≤34 weeks) compared to term newborns (≥35 weeks).
- These findings suggest that RDW can be a valuable parameter in the differential diagnosis of neonatal hematologic disorders.
- RDW, in conjunction with other red blood cell indices, may improve the diagnostic accuracy for neonatal hematologic conditions.
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