Establishment of Age-Specific Reference Intervals for 16 Coagulation Parameters in Chinese Children Using Sysmex...

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Hematology
• Clinical Coagulation
• Developmental Biology

Background:

• The coagulation system in children changes dynamically with age, requiring age-specific reference intervals (RIs).
• Existing RIs may not accurately reflect the hemostatic status of pediatric populations.
• Accurate RIs are vital for diagnosing and managing bleeding and thrombotic disorders in children.

Purpose of the Study:

• To establish comprehensive, age-specific reference intervals (RIs) for 16 coagulation parameters in Chinese children aged 0-18 years.
• To utilize the Sysmex CN-6000 analyzer for precise measurement of routine and specialized coagulation markers.
• To provide essential data for the accurate interpretation of coagulation tests in pediatric patients.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional study was conducted on children aged 0 days to 18 years.
• Participants were categorized into six distinct age groups.
• Sixteen coagulation parameters, including routine tests, thrombotic markers, and coagulation factors, were analyzed using the Sysmex CN-6000 analyzer.

Main Results:

• Neonates displayed unique coagulation profiles, with prolonged activated partial thromboplastin time (APTT) and thrombin time (TT), and reduced levels of anticoagulant and coagulation factors.
• Age-dependent trends were observed, including shortening of APTT and progressive increase in factor IX levels into adolescence.
• Novel reference intervals for neonatal D-dimer (D-Di) and Fibrin Degradation Products (FDP) were established, addressing a critical gap.

Conclusions:

• Age-specific reference intervals are essential for the accurate assessment of coagulation status in pediatric populations.
• This study presents the first comprehensive set of RIs for the Sysmex CN-6000 analyzer in Chinese children.
• These established RIs will significantly aid in the diagnosis and management of coagulation disorders in pediatric practice.