Hematological reference values assessed from birth to adolescence in Saudi subjects in the area of Jeddah

ABSTRACT

A study of basic haematological values inclusive of the Hb concentration Hct ratio, RBC count, MCV, MCH, MCHC, total and differential leucocyte counts and platelet counts was undertaken in a reference Saudi population in the area of Jeddah from birth to adolescsnce. A total of 843 males and 830 females were investigated. Significant differences in some of the values were found between the sexes at variable periods of physiological development. Comparison with published series from other countries also revealed some differences especially the higher Saudi RBC counts and lower MCV and MCH values. These were discussed and related to the high rate of occurrence of alpha thalassaemia in the Saudi population. The total and differential leucocyte count found for Saudi Arabians fell midway between those reported from Caucasian and tropical communities