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Organ Weight Reference Ranges for Ages 0 to 12 Years
D Kimberley Molina1, Kathy Pinneri2, John A Stash3
1From the Bexar County Medical Examiner's Office, San Antonio.
The American Journal of Forensic Medicine and Pathology
|April 11, 2019
Summary
This study establishes new reference ranges for organ weights in children aged 0-12 years, using body length as the primary predictor. These updated pediatric organ weight ranges are crucial for accurate autopsy interpretation.
Area of Science:
- Forensic Pathology
- Pediatric Autopsy
- Biostatistics
Background:
- Abnormal organ weights are key indicators of disease in forensic pathology.
- Current pediatric organ weight reference ranges are outdated, stemming from studies in the 1930s and 1960s.
- Accurate organ weight assessment is vital for pediatric autopsy interpretation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To establish current, accurate reference ranges for organ weights in children.
- To provide updated data for pediatric forensic autopsy examinations.
- To identify reliable predictors for pediatric organ weight.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of 1759 pediatric cases (0-12 years) with traumatic deaths.
- Statistical analysis to determine predictors of organ weight.
- Development of reference ranges stratified by age and body length.
Main Results:
- Body length was identified as the most significant predictor of organ weight in children.
- New reference ranges for pediatric organ weights were successfully established.
- Data stratified by both age and body length for enhanced clinical utility.
Conclusions:
- Updated organ weight reference ranges are essential for accurate pediatric autopsy.
- Body length is a critical factor in determining normal organ weights in children.
- This study provides a valuable resource for forensic pathologists and medical examiners.
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