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Urinary organic acids quantitated by age groups in a healthy pediatric population
Insights
This study analyzed organic acid content in pediatric urine samples, finding significant age-related differences. These findings in healthy children may aid in diagnosing pediatric metabolic disorders.
Area of Science:
- Clinical Chemistry
- Pediatric Metabolomics
- Analytical Chemistry
Background:
- Establishing reference ranges for urinary organic acids is crucial for pediatric health.
- Understanding age-related variations in metabolic profiles is essential for accurate diagnosis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To quantify and compare organic acid excretion in healthy pediatric populations across different age groups.
- To establish a baseline for urinary organic acid profiles in children.
- To identify age-dependent changes in organic acid metabolism.
Main Methods:
- Urine samples from 92 healthy children (0-12 years) and adults were analyzed.
- Organic acids were extracted using anion-exchange chromatography.
- Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) was employed for identification and quantification after derivatization.
Main Results:
- Organic acid content was measured and tabulated for five pediatric age groups.
- Significant differences in the excretion of several organic acids were observed between age groups, adjusted for urinary creatinine.
- Individual variations within age groups were noted, alongside potential influencing factors like age, maturity, and diet.
Conclusions:
- Urinary organic acid profiles exhibit significant age-related variations in healthy children.
- These established reference ranges can serve as a foundation for identifying metabolic abnormalities in pediatric patients.
- Further research may elucidate the specific roles of physiological maturity and diet in these observed differences.
Abstract:
Urine samples from 92 individuals of a healthy pediatric population ranging in age from less than 24 h to 12 years were analyzed for organic acid content (amino acids excepted). A few samples from adults were included for purposes of comparison. Acids were extracted by using an anion-exchange procedure, converted to trimethylsilyloxime derivatives, and analyzed by gas chromatography with the help of a small computer system. Identifications were confirmed by using a combined gas chromatograph/mass spectrometer/computer system. The data has been tabulated according to five pediatric age groups. Despite large individual variation within age groups, significant differences in amounts of several acids excreted (based on urinary creatinine concentration) have been determined between age groups. Such differences might be due to one or a combination of several factors, including changes with age in creatinine excretion, in physiologic maturity, and in diet. Such data may help to provide a basis for diagnosing metabolic abnormalities in pediatric patients.