Children’s Blood Test Results – Interpretation and Significance

The results of blood tests can often be confusing for parents, especially when it comes to their children. When we receive the laboratory report, we often do not know what the value marked with a star means and how much we should worry. The situation is further complicated by the fact that the reference ranges indicating normal values often apply to adults, making them not always relevant for children.

This article aims to help parents interpret laboratory results and provide information on the most important blood test parameters. The basic blood count, as well as indicators of inflammation and infection such as CRP and sedimentation rate, are all important parts of the diagnosis, but they can also be sources of misunderstanding. Knowing these values can help us better understand our child’s health status and what steps need to be taken for further examinations.

Understanding the blood count examination is crucial, as it helps in diagnosing various diseases and conditions, making it essential for parents to be aware of the basic parameters.

Signs of Infections and Inflammations in the Blood Count

A fundamental part of the blood count is the white blood cell (WBC) count, which normally ranges between 4-11 G/L. If this value is elevated, it may indicate the presence of an infection or pathological immune processes. In cases of particularly high WBC counts, we may suspect a malignant change in the white blood cells. Conversely, a decrease in the white blood cell count can occur with viral infections, such as influenza, or as a result of various hereditary diseases.

In relation to white blood cells, the ratio of lymphocytes (Ly) and neutrophils (Neu) should also be considered. An elevated lymphocyte count generally indicates a viral infection, while an increase in neutrophil count points to a bacterial infection. Other important indicators are the inflammatory parameters, which include the sedimentation rate (We) and the level of C-reactive protein (CRP). The normal We value ranges up to 10 mm/hour, while a CRP value below 5 is considered normal. CRP values of 20-30 may indicate the need for antibiotic treatment.

Overall, monitoring white blood cells and inflammatory parameters during the blood count examination is crucial for establishing an accurate diagnosis and can help parents understand if their child’s health shows concerning signs.

Blood Count and Anemia

The hemoglobin (HGB) and hematocrit (HTC) values are closely related and indicate the blood’s oxygen-carrying capacity. The normal hemoglobin level in newborns is often higher, then decreases between 3-6 months of age, and generally reaches adult levels during adolescence. In boys, the hemoglobin level is typically higher than in girls, and normally ranges between 120-160 g/L.

If the hemoglobin level drops below 120 g/L, it indicates anemia, and below 80 g/L, a blood transfusion may be necessary. High hemoglobin levels, above 160 g/L, may require further investigation, as they can also indicate that something abnormal is happening in the body.

Laboratory reports often include MCV, MCH, and MCHC values, which are related to hemoglobin and hematocrit levels. These values are also important in determining the type of anemia, as different types of anemia require different treatments.

It is essential for parents to be aware of the significance of hemoglobin and hematocrit values, as they play a key role in understanding their child’s health and ensuring timely medical interventions.

Intestinal Worms, Allergies, and Thrombosis Risk

The platelet (Thrombocyte, THR) count normally ranges from 150-400 G/L. If the platelet count increases, even up to 500-600 G/L, it may indicate infectious diseases. Furthermore, if the platelet level remains persistently high, it poses a risk of thrombosis, making further monitoring important in such cases. A decrease in platelet count can also be concerning, as values below 50 G/L may lead to bleeding, requiring urgent medical intervention.

An increase in eosinophil (Eo) count may indicate allergic reactions, while an increase in monocyte (Mo) count may signal inflammatory processes. It is important to note that if cell counts are performed using automated testing, these values may not always be reliable, so parents should not panic. It is always advisable to consult the treating physician for interpreting laboratory results.

In addition to the aforementioned conditions, many other diseases can influence blood count parameters, so parents should always pay attention to any symptoms experienced by their child and evaluate laboratory results from a medical perspective. A thorough medical examination and consideration of symptoms are the best ways to understand health conditions arising from blood counts.