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Updated: May 4, 2026
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Haematological and biochemical reference values of Gambian infants
Aderonke A Odutola1, Muhammed O Afolabi1, James Jafali2
1Vaccinology Theme, Medical Research Council Unit, Fajara, The Gambia.
Insights
This study established crucial haematological and biochemical reference values for healthy Gambian infants. These region-specific ranges differ from global norms, highlighting the need for localized paediatric data.
Area of Science:
- Paediatric Haematology
- Clinical Biochemistry
- Public Health
Background:
- Establishing accurate reference values is vital for diagnosing childhood illnesses.
- Existing haematological and biochemical data often lack regional specificity, potentially impacting patient care in diverse populations.
- The Gambia, a West African nation, requires localized paediatric reference ranges.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine haematological and biochemical reference values for healthy infants in The Gambia.
- To provide a basis for accurate clinical assessment and research in the region.
Main Methods:
- Blood samples were collected from healthy infants in Sukuta, Western Division, The Gambia.
- Key haematological and biochemical indices were analysed.
- The 2.5th and 97.5th percentiles were calculated to establish reference ranges.
Main Results:
- Reference ranges for haematological and biochemical indices were successfully determined.
- Haemoglobin, total white cell count (WBC), and platelet levels showed a decrease with age.
- Potassium and alkaline phosphatase levels decreased with age, while urea and creatinine levels increased.
Conclusions:
- The established haematological and biochemical reference values for Gambian infants differ from those in other regions.
- Region-specific paediatric reference ranges are essential for optimal patient management.
- Localized data are crucial for evaluating the impact of interventions in clinical research.
Objective:
To establish haematological and biological reference values for Gambian infants.
Methods:
Basic haematological and biochemical indices were analysed in blood samples obtained from healthy infants from Sukuta in the Western Division of The Gambia. The 2.5 and the 97.5 centiles for these indices were estimated.
Results:
Reference ranges for haematological and biochemical indices were determined. Haemoglobin, total white cell count (WBC) and platelet levels decreased with age (P < 0.001), whereas most of the white cell count subsets except monocytes did not vary with age. Potassium and alkaline phosphatase fell significantly with increasing age (P < 0.001; P < 0.001), whereas urea and creatinine rose with increasing age (P = 0.002; P < 0.001, respectively).
Conclusion:
Our set of haematological and biochemical reference values for healthy infants in The Gambia differs from values in other settings, thus underscoring the importance of establishing region-specific paediatric reference ranges to ensure optimal patient management and evaluate the impact of interventions in clinical research.
