Introduction:

The biomarker urinary neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin (u-NGAL) has high excretion in case of ischemia the renal cell loop of Henle and collecting tubule; so far the normal values in neonates are controversial.

Objectives:

To determine u-NGAL values in healthy newborns at 24 and 72 hours of life, according to weeks of gestation (WG).

Material and methods:

Seventy neonates (25-32 WG n = 25, 33-35 WG n = 25 y 36-38 WG n = 10; 39-41 WG, n =10). The u-NGAL (ng/mL) levels were determined by chemiluminescence. Values are shown as median as well as minimum and maximum (median [min - max]).

Results:

u-NGAL levels were different in gestational age group at 24 and 72 hours. 24 hours = 25-32 WG = 18.2 [0.5-543.1], 33-35 WG = 22.3 [0.9-84.4], 36-38 WG = 10.1 [2.5-181.9], 39-41 WG = 20.4 [0-577] ; 72 hours = 25-32 WG = 47.2 [7.5-441.2], 33-35 WG = 33.0 [4.7-235.5], 36-38 WG = 27.7 [4.09-173.1], 39-41 WG = 17.8 [2.0-113.5].

Conclusion:

u-NGAL values in neonates seem to increase with gestational age and postnatal life hours; however, more studies are required to determine normal values.

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