A normal blood count for a baby varies depending on their age, specifically within the first year of life. Here's a breakdown of the normal ranges for key hematological tests during infancy, based on data from UI Health Care:
Normal Pediatric Hematology Ranges
The following table outlines normal ranges for hematocrit, hemoglobin, and MCH (Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin) in infants:
| Test | Age | Range |
|---|---|---|
| Hematocrit | 0-1 month | 42-65 |
| 1-2 months | 33-55 | |
| 2-3 months | 28-41 | |
| 3-6 months | 29-41 | |
| 6 months-1 year | 31-41 | |
| Hemoglobin | 0-1 month | 13.4-19.9 |
| 1-2 months | 10.7-17.1 | |
| 2-3 months | 9.0-14.1 | |
| 3-6 months | 9.5-14.1 | |
| 6 months-1 year | 11.3-14.1 | |
| MCH | 0-1 month | 31-37 |
| 1-3 months | 27-36 | |
| 3-6 months | 25-35 | |
| 6 months-1 year | 23-31 |
Key Blood Count Components and Their Significance:
- Hematocrit: This measures the percentage of red blood cells in the blood volume.
- Hemoglobin: This protein in red blood cells carries oxygen. The normal range varies significantly during the first few months as the baby transitions from fetal hemoglobin to adult hemoglobin.
- MCH (Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin): This is the average amount of hemoglobin inside a red blood cell.
Important Considerations:
- These ranges are guidelines and slight variations can occur.
- A healthcare professional should always interpret blood count results in the context of the baby's overall health and other test results.
- These values are sourced from the University of Iowa Health Care Pediatric Reference Ranges.
