Paediatric pathology is a highly specialised field, with key differences and challenges compared to delivering diagnostic care for the adult population.

In this episode of The Pathology Report, host and microbiologist Prof Caitlin Keighley is joined by an expert panel to explore how precision and perspective guide the delivery of pathology for paediatric patients.

• Dr Tina Yen – chemical pathologist, St George Hospital Sydney.
• Dr Anthea Greenway – paediatric haematologist, Royal Children’s Hospital Melbourne.
• Prof Paul Monagle – paediatric haematologist, University of Melbourne.

Highlighting case studies, including bilirubin testing, paediatric coagulation and ferritin studies, the panel explores:

• How age-related reference ranges are not always established, and the impact this might have on clinical management
• The need for standardisation between laboratories, and why varying clinicians need to be made aware that different analysers produce different results so they can tailor their requests and interpret results accordingly.
• The challenges associated with only being able to draw small amounts of blood from some paediatric patients, particularly neonates, and the need for testing protocols to reduce blood volume loss.

While representing only a small percentage of the patient population, the unique needs of paediatric patients and the imperative to help give children long and healthy lives highlights the importance of paediatric pathology and the need for greater investment and research in this space.

Episode links:

• HAPPI Kids Harmonising Age Pathology Parameters in Kids

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