Normal neonatal chloride range?

Normal neonatal chloride range?

• A. 110-130
• B. 87-114
• C. 100-120
• D. 70-90

Answer: (B)

Chloride is a key extracellular anion that works with bicarbonate to maintain acid–base balance. In newborns, especially preterm infants, kidney function and fluid shifts are still maturing, so the normal reference range for serum chloride is broader than adults. The range around 87 to 114 mEq/L best fits neonatal physiology. Values higher than this can indicate hyperchloremia, which often follows administration of saline solutions and can be associated with metabolic acidosis. Values lower than this can indicate hypochloremia, which may occur with metabolic alkalosis, diuretic use, or losses that accompany vomiting. So, 87–114 mEq/L is considered the normal neonatal chloride range, reflecting the broader, age-related variability in this population.

Chloride is a key extracellular anion that works with bicarbonate to maintain acid–base balance. In newborns, especially preterm infants, kidney function and fluid shifts are still maturing, so the normal reference range for serum chloride is broader than adults.

The range around 87 to 114 mEq/L best fits neonatal physiology. Values higher than this can indicate hyperchloremia, which often follows administration of saline solutions and can be associated with metabolic acidosis. Values lower than this can indicate hypochloremia, which may occur with metabolic alkalosis, diuretic use, or losses that accompany vomiting.

So, 87–114 mEq/L is considered the normal neonatal chloride range, reflecting the broader, age-related variability in this population.