Author:
Zhu Jinxiu,Li Zexin,Deng Yuguo,Lan Liting,Yang Jinying
Abstract
Abstract
Background
White blood cell (WBC) count increases during pregnancy, necessitating reliable reference intervals for assessing infections and pregnancy-related complications. This study aimed to establish comprehensive reference intervals for WBC counts during pregnancy.
Methods
The analysis included 17,737 pregnant women, with weekly WBC count measurements from pre-pregnancy to postpartum. A threshold linear regression model determined reference intervals, while Harris and Boyd’s test partitioned the intervals.
Results
WBC count exhibited a significant increase during pregnancy, characterized by a rapid rise before 7 weeks of gestation, followed by a plateau. Neutrophils primarily drove this increase, showing a similar pattern. The threshold regression model and Harris and Boyd’s test supported partitioned reference intervals for WBC counts: 4.0–10.0 × 10^9/L for < = 2 weeks, 4.7–11.9 × 10^9/L for 3–5 weeks, and 5.7–14.4 × 10^9/L for > = 6 weeks of gestation. These reference intervals identified pregnant women with high WBC counts, who had a higher incidence of pregnancy-related complications including placenta previa, oligohydramnios, secondary uterine inertia, and intrauterine growth restriction.
Conclusion
This study establishes comprehensive reference intervals for WBC counts during pregnancy. Monitoring WBC counts is clinically relevant, as elevated levels are associated with an increased risk of infection and pregnancy-related complications.
Funder
National Natural Science Foundation of China
Medical and Health Science and Technology Plan attached to Longgang District Science and Technology Development Special Funding
Publisher
Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Subject
Obstetrics and Gynecology