Leukocyte cytochemical reactions in preterm and small for date babies

Four cytochemical reactions widely used for hematological diagnosis (Myeloperoxydase, leukocyte alkaline phosphatase, PAS and Sudan Black) were carried out in 46 infants admitted into a neonatology unit (14 preterm babies, 19 small for date newborn infants (SDB) and 13 preterm with retarded intra-uterine growth). The MPO, polymorphonuclear PAS and Sudan Black levels are comparable in the three groups of infants and the same as in normal full-term newborn babies. On the other hand, the LAP level, identical in preterms and SDB, is lower than in full-term infants but higher than in adults. Lymphocyte PAS value increases progressively with age. Better interpretation of results would be gained with knowledge of normal ranges for these four parameters in children. The authors suggest that these reactions should be used in the field of general metabolic diseases, susceptibility to infection and genetic diseases with or without chromosal abnomaly.