Age- and sex-specific reference intervals for blood copper, zinc, calcium, magnesium, iron, lead, and cadmium in infants and children

ObjectivesReference intervals for clinically important elements in infants and children are rarely reported, despite their importance for accurate clinical decision-making. The exploration of such reference intervals is essential.Design and MethodsSeven elements, including copper (Cu), zinc (Zn), calcium (Ca), magnesium (Mg), iron (Fe), lead (Pb), and cadmium (Cd), were analyzed on BOHUI 5100 and 2100 analyzers using blood samples from 4044 healthy infants and children.ResultsAge- and sex-specific reference intervals were established for Cu, Zn, Ca, Mg, Fe, Pb, and Cd.ConclusionsEstablished reference intervals for Cu, Zn, Ca, Mg and Fe can provide important guidance for the reasonable supplementation of trace elements and other essential elements in infants and children. Reference intervals for Pb and Cd can play a role in the surveillance and diagnosis of environmental overexposure.

► We reported age- and gender-specific reference intervals for blood elements.
► We established such reference intervals using nonparametric method.
► Data were obtained from 4044 samples of healthy infants and children.
► We noted gender-related differences in Cu, Zn, Ca, Fe and Pb concentrations.