Introduction
Immature platelet fraction (IPF) is a parameter for reticulated platelets. A high percentage IPF (%‐IPF) is indicative of consumptive or recovering thrombocytopenic disorders in contrast to a low %‐IPF seen in aplastic states. Absolute IPF (A‐IPF) specifically reflects the number of immature platelets in circulation. This study aimed to establish reliable reference intervals for %‐IPF and A‐IPF.
Methods
Except outliers, platelet counts and IPF were determined in 2152 healthy individuals (1252 men and 900 women) and 133 umbilical cord blood from healthy full‐term neonates using XE‐2100 hematology analyzer (Sysmex, Kobe, Japan). The reference intervals for %‐IPF and A‐IPF were defined using nonparametrical percentile methods according to the Clinical and Laboratory Standard Institute (CLSI) guideline.
Results
Platelets,%‐IPF, and A‐IPF all showed nonparametrical distributions. In total individuals, the reference intervals for %‐IPF and A‐IPF were 0.5–3.3% (0.5–3.1% in men; 0.5–3.4% in women) and 1.25–7.02 × 109/L (1.30–6.80 × 109/L in men; 1.21–7.15 × 109/L in women), respectively. The reference intervals for %‐IPF and A‐IPF in umbilical cord blood were 0.7–3.8% and 1.93–9.7 × 109/L, respectively.
Conclusions
This study provides the reference interval for IPF, including %‐IPF and A‐IPF, according to the CLSI guideline. These results could be used as fundamental data for clinical use as well as future researches.