Normal values for haemoglobin concentration and red cell indices in preschool children on the Highveld.

Data on haemoglobin concentration, red cell count, packed cell volume, mean cell volume, mean cell haemoglobin and mean cell haemoglobin concentration for 'normal' children aged 1-4 years living on the Highveld (altitude 1400-1800 m) are presented in yearly age groups. The children were defined as normal on the basis of having growth attainment and iron, folate and vitamin B12 nutrition within accepted normal limits. The results obtained differ from the standard reference values published for children resident at sea level. It is suggested that the mean (+/- 2 SD) ranges presented be used as normal ranges in the population studied.