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Lymphocyte subset reference ranges in healthy Saudi Arabian children
S Shahabuddin1, I H al Ayed, M O el-Rad
1Department of Pathology and Department of Pediatrics, College of Medicine, Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
Summary
This study establishes reference ranges for lymphocyte subsets in Saudi children. Absolute lymphocyte counts decrease with age, while percentages increase, providing crucial pediatric health data.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Pediatrics
- Hematology
Background:
- Establishing reference ranges for lymphocyte subsets is crucial for diagnosing pediatric immune disorders.
- Normal values for lymphocyte populations vary significantly between children and adults, and across different pediatric age groups.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine reference ranges for lymphocyte subsets in healthy Saudi Arabian children and infants.
- To compare these values with those of healthy adults.
Main Methods:
- Flow cytometry was used to analyze lymphocyte subsets (T cells, B cells, NK cells, CD4+, CD8+) in peripheral blood samples.
- Monoclonal antibodies were employed to identify and quantify cells expressing specific surface markers (CD3, CD19, CD4, CD8, CD16/CD56, HLA-DR).
Main Results:
- Absolute counts of all lymphocyte subsets decreased with age from 1 month to 13 years.
- Percentage values of most lymphocyte subsets increased with age, except for B cells and CD4+ T cells.
- The CD4+/CD8+ T cell ratio decreased significantly with age.
Conclusions:
- The study provides essential reference values for lymphocyte subsets in Saudi children, aiding in the diagnosis and management of pediatric diseases.
- Age-related changes in lymphocyte populations highlight the importance of age-specific reference ranges in pediatric immunology.