Age and seasonal variation and establishment of reference intervals for water-soluble vitamins determined by liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry

Abstract

ObjectivesWe aimed to establish reference intervals for water-soluble vitamins determined by liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry to improve the diagnosis of vitamin deficiency and outcomes of associated conditions. MethodsIn this retrospective analysis of 24 810 specimens, we aimed to examine sex-, age-, and season-related variations in vitamin levels in different groups, set reference-value intervals for vitamin levels, and evaluate these reference values against those recommended by manufacturers. ResultsLevels of vitamins B3, B5, B6, B7, and B12 were higher, and those of vitamins B2, B9, and C were lower, in men than in women. There were seasonal variations in levels of vitamins B1, B3, B5, B6, B9, B12, and C. Levels of vitamins B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, B7, B9, and C differed across age groups; vitamin B1 displayed significant differences between ages 0 to 14 years and adults compared with reference change values. The lower limits of vitamins B1 (ages 15–100 y), B2, B3, B7, and C were lower, and that of vitamin B5 was higher, than the recommended reference values. Finally, the upper limits of vitamins B1, B3, B5, B6, and B7 were lower than the recommended values. ConclusionsFor values obtained using liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry, the lower limits of reference intervals for vitamins B1 (ages 15–100 y), B2, B3, B7, and C should be lowered, that of vitamin B5 should be raised, and the upper limits of reference intervals for vitamins B1, B3, B5, B6, and B7 should be lowered.