Biochemical Reference Intervals Research Articles

Haematological and Biochemical Reference Intervals Towards a Proactive Health Monitoring Approach in Norwegian Atlantic Salmon Farming.

Haematological and plasma parameters are used in veterinary medicine as a diagnostic tool, allowing for the early detection of potential health and welfare issues. For the implementation of monitoring strategies, reference intervals (RIs) are needed to know when deviations in those parameters become clinically relevant. Here, haematological and plasma biochemical RIs of Norwegian Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar Linnaeus) are presented for 29 biomarkers. Two subgroups were defined from the reference population based on water type, referred to as pre-adult (freshwater, 166.8 ± 118.4 g, N = 979) and adult (seawater, 2655 ± 2883 g, N = 4941), collected at 93 fish farms along the Norwegian coast. While the influence of various pre-analytical variables on RIs is well documented, aquaculture practitioners cannot always control those variables in the field. Here, RIs were calculated from blood samples collected based on local pre-analytical practices and then further processed under standardised conditions (analytical phase). RIs are therefore considered highly relevant for the application in the field. Finally, when taking blood samples in the field, it is advised to centrifuge whole blood as soon as possible, while plasma parameters investigated were stable for 168 h at 4°C or 72 h at room temperature.

HEMATOLOGY AND BIOCHEMICAL REFERENCE INTERVALS FOR FREE-RANGING PRONGHORN (ANTILOCAPRA AMERICANA) IN WEST TEXAS.

Pronghorn (Antilocapra americana) are considered a keystone species of North American grasslands and an important economic source for many landowners in Texas. Pronghorn restoration projects routinely capture and translocate individuals from surplus populations to restoration areas. The objective of this study was to generate normal hematological and biochemical reference intervals (RI) for free-ranging pronghorn populations in Texas as a health monitoring tool for pronghorn restoration efforts. Blood samples were collected by jugular venipuncture and divided among an EDTA tube, serum separator tube, and a single blood smear on site. Complete blood counts and biochemical profiles were completed at the Texas Veterinary Medical Diagnostic Laboratory. In total, 417 individuals (41 males, 376 females) were included in the analysis. RI were determined by robust methods (R Studio) and mixed models' analysis of variance (SPSS 28) to examine differences in blood parameters due to fever, sex, age (adult versus yearling [<1 yr of age]), cell abnormalities, and pathogen exposure reported by the testing laboratory. Sex, age, and pathogen exposure affected mean blood values, but did not warrant development of separate RI by class. Bluetongue virus was identified in 46.8% (195/417) of pronghorns and epizootic hemorrhagic disease in 89.4% (194/217) of pronghorns; 84.8% (184/217) of the pronghorns tested positive for both diseases. This information provides baseline hematology and biochemical parameters to assess the health of free-ranging pronghorn and guide wildlife managers in decision-making for future translocations and restoration objectives.

HEMATOLOGY AND BIOCHEMISTRY REFERENCE VALUES IN NESTLING RED KITES (MILVUS MILVUS) IN SHORT-TERM HUMAN CARE IN ENGLAND.

Between the years 2022 and 2023, 62 red kite (Milvus milvus) nestlings were translocated from England to Spain to bolster declining populations in mainland Europe as part of a wider conservation initiative. Health examinations were undertaken by veterinarians ahead of translocation, including examination of hematology and biochemistry parameters from blood samples. This study aimed to establish reference values for these parameters in nestling red kites for use in future translocations or for other clinical purposes. All individuals included in the analysis were clinically healthy at the time of sampling. Biochemical reference intervals were comparable to published values for other Accipitridae, although differences in hematology were noted: PCV was generally lower; and WBC counts higher than (up to triple) those reported for related species of a similar age. It is hypothesized that these differences reflect species variations or the effects of the stress of recent capture on the immune system of the red kites. A Leucocytozoon species was identified on blood smears of six of the red kites. The reference intervals presented in this study are representative of free-living red kite nestlings in England that have recently been captured for conservation translocation purposes.

Complete Blood Count and Biochemistry Reference Intervals for Healthy Adult Donkeys in the United States.

Previous hematologic and serum biochemistry reference interval (RI) values have been established for donkeys in various geographic regions, life-stages, or for specific donkey breeds. The last extensive investigation establishing RIs for adult donkeys in the United States (U.S.) was published over three decades ago. We aimed to establish updated robust RIs using a reference population of apparently healthy adult donkeys from across the U.S. Standard sized (n = 102), miniature (n = 17), and mammoth (n = 1) donkeys from four different states were enrolled, with 20% of the study population including donkeys captured directly from the wild in Death Valley National Park, CA. RIs were established in accordance with the American Society for Veterinary Clinical Pathology and Clinical Laboratory Standards Institute guidelines. The findings will assist practitioners with the interpretation of their complete blood count and biochemistry panel results in U.S. donkeys. This study also highlights a comparison of results for some important analytes in U.S. donkeys compared to U.S. horses and previously established donkey RIs.

Blood Biochemical Reference Intervals of Black Caimans (Melanosuchus niger) and Spectacled Caimans (Caiman crocodilus) in the Brazilian Amazon Region.

Reference intervals for physiologic parameters, crucial for assessing the health status of animals, have been documented for various crocodilian species across the globe. Nonetheless, the establishment of plasma biochemical reference intervals specific to Amazonian crocodilians remains incomplete. In an effort to address this gap, we procured blood samples from 65 black caimans (Melanosuchus niger) and 58 spectacled caimans (Caiman crocodilus) during the period of September-December 2019 within the Anavilhanas National Park in the Brazilian Amazon region We aimed to define reference intervals for 11 key plasma variables measured, namely glucose, triglycerides, total cholesterol, calcium, magnesium, sodium, potassium, albumin, total protein, uric acid, and urea. In general, the determined blood reference intervals aligned closely with those established for other crocodilian species. Some specific measurements, such as total cholesterol, sodium, and magnesium, exhibited distinct variations based on the species. Furthermore, female black caimans showcased elevated cholesterol levels compared with their male counterparts. Within the spectacled caimans, disparities related to sex were evident solely in the case of electrolytes sodium and potassium, with males demonstrating higher levels compared with females. These reference intervals not only provide data for assessing potential fluctuations in the health of wild or captive Amazonian crocodilians but also hold value for veterinary management.

Comparative plasma biochemistry analyte data in nesting leatherback (Dermochelys coriacea), foraging green (Chelonia mydas) and foraging and nesting hawksbill (Eretmochelys imbricata) sea turtles in Grenada, West Indies.

Blood biochemistry represents a minimally invasive tool for monitoring sea turtle health, assessing injured sea turtles and supporting conservation strategies. In Grenada, West Indies, plasma biochemical variables were examined in 33 nesting leatherback (Dermochelys coriacea), 49 foraging green (Chelonia mydas), 49 foraging hawksbill (Eretmochelys imbricata) and 12 nesting hawksbill sea turtles sampled between 2017 and 2022. Plasma biochemistry reference intervals are described herein except for nesting hawksbills, which are represented by descriptive statistics due to the low sample size. Select analyte concentrations were positively correlated with curved carapace length in leatherbacks (chloride), green turtles (total protein, albumin and globulin) and foraging hawksbills (total protein, albumin and phosphorus). Cholesterol (7.8 mmol/l ± 1.6 SD) and triglyceride (6.9 mmol/l ± 1.9 SD) concentrations were significantly higher in leatherbacks compared to foraging green turtles, foraging hawksbills and nesting hawksbills (P < 0.001 for all). Cholesterol was significantly higher in nesting hawksbills compared to foraging green turtles (P = 0.050) and foraging hawksbills (P = 0.050). Foraging hawksbills demonstrated significantly higher aspartate transaminase activities than leatherbacks (P = 0.002), green turtles (P = 0.009) and nesting hawksbills (P < 0.001). Biochemical results provide baseline population health data and support guidance for treatments during clinical sea turtle rehabilitation efforts. They also provide insight into species-specific physiologic differences and preludes further studies to better characterize the impacts of life-stage class on biochemistry reference intervals to better support wild sea turtle populations in Grenada.

Haematological and biochemical reference intervals for apparently healthy working equids in The Gambia

Haematological and biochemical reference intervals for apparently healthy working equids in The Gambia

Hematologic and Biochemical Reference Intervals of a Single Population of Captive Burmese Roofed Turtles (Batagur trivittata)

The Burmese roofed turtle (Batagur trivittata), endemic to Myanmar, is a critically endangered species. Little is known about their physiology and health. Therefore, establishing physiological reference intervals is essential for the implementation of conservation plans. This study establishes hematology and biochemistry reference intervals of a group of 23 captive Burmese roofed turtles. The animals were sampled during a four-month period, outside the breeding season. Most blood values did not differ significantly based on animal sex. However in females, lymphocyte count, and concentrations of glucose and calcium were relatively higher, and potassium lower compared to that of males. Better understanding of blood analytes will help strengthen ex-situ management and healthcare protocols, as well as improve ongoing conservation efforts for this important species.

Indexing hematological and serum biochemical reference intervals of Himalayan snow trout, Schizothorax esocinus to instrument in health assessment.

Schizothorax esocinus, commonly known as snow trout, is one of the main contributors of food and livelihood in the colder zone of Himalayan region. The comprehensive information on its hematological and serum biochemical reference intervals is not reported yet. In the present study an attempt has been made to elucidate the hematological and serum biochemical reference intervals of S. esocinus from River Jhelum using protocols of the American Society of Veterinary Clinical Pathology (ASVCP). Wild fish were sampled over a period of 2years from the pollution free sites of river Jhelum. Fish blood was harvested through caudal venipuncture and hemato-biochemical analysis performed thereof. Data values from a total of healthy 432 adult fish specimens (216 male, 216 female) were systematically recorded. The reference intervals for hematological and serum biochemical parameters of S. esocinus were established using Reference Value Advisor software v 2.1. RIs for hematological and serum analytes ranged as: hemoglobin (Hb) 78.38-116.35 (g/L); white blood cells (WBC) 10-20 (×109/L); red blood cells (RBC) 1.30-2.15 (×1012/L); packed cell volume 27.00-39.45 (%); total protein 39.21-61.62 (g/L); albumin 8.20-22.02 (g/L); globulin 27.58-49.55 (g/L); glucose 3.25-7.18 (mmol/L); urea 0.96-2.38 (mmol/L); cholesterol 3.80-6.90 (mmol/L). The study also depicted that certain blood measurands were influenced with respect to sex. Significantly (p < 0.05) higher values of Hb, red blood cells count and serum glucose were noted in male as compared to female which, on the other hand, registered higher white blood cells count and serum cholesterol level (Mann Whitney U test, p < 0.05). The work, therefore, provides baseline information on hematological and serum biochemical analytes of this species which holds high commercial importance. RIs reported here can help monitor the health status of fish by improving the use of non-lethal diagnostic methods in piscine medicine.

Hematology, Biochemistry, and Protein Electrophoresis Reference Intervals of Western European Hedgehog (Erinaceus europaeus) from a Rehabilitation Center in Northern Portugal

The Western European hedgehog (Erinaceus europaeus) can work as a bioindicator of environmental pollution and be a host for multiple zoonotic agents, making it relevant in terms of One Health studies. It is essential to deepen the knowledge on this species and calculate reference intervals (RIs) for the usual hematological and biochemical parameters. For this retrospective study (2017-2022), the archives of the Clinical Pathology Laboratory (LPC) of University of Trás-os-Montes and Alto Douro (UTAD) Veterinary Teaching Hospital were analyzed. Data of hematology, clinical biochemistry, and protein electrophoresis from 37 healthy hedgehogs of the Wild Animal Rehabilitation Center at UTAD, Northern Portugal, were included. It was possible to calculate RIs for almost all of the variables in the study, using Reference Value Advisor V2.1. Moreover, sex and age effects were investigated: alkaline phosphatase (p = 0.012, higher in males); total proteins (p = 0.034, higher in adults); mean cell volume (p = 0.007) and mean corpuscular hemoglobin (p = 0.010) (both higher in juveniles); and red blood cell distribution width (p = 0.021, higher in adults). Our study allowed for the first time to define RIs for a population of hedgehogs in Portugal, having a potentially relevant impact on species conservation and in the human-animal health interface.

Variation in normative values of major clinical biochemistry analytes in healthy reproductive-age women in India

OBJECTIVES: Clinical biochemistry reference intervals (RIs) play a crucial role in interpreting patient test results and making informed clinical decisions. Using data from an ongoing Indian Council of Medical Research-National task force study on healthy women, normative ranges for commonly analyzed biochemical analytes were established. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A total of 13,181 women of reproductive age (18–40 years) were recruited from different urban and rural regions of the country, of which 9898 women signed an informed consent were included. Among these, women having features of hyperandrogenism, menstrual cycle irregularities, and comorbidities were excluded. RIs of 22 analytes were computed in the remaining 938 women controls. To estimate the 95% range of the reference distribution, the limits of the 2.5th percentile and the 97.5th percentile were used in the study. RESULTS: Mean ± standard deviation of age and body mass index of participants was 30.12 ± 6.32 years and 22.8 ± 3.36 kg/m2 respectively. Centiles (2.5th–97.5th) of liver function parameters, lipid parameters, glycaemic parameters, and renal parameters are presented. No significant difference in analytes was observed in relation to the area of residence, and age groups except in albumin (P = 0.03). The distribution of most of the parameters was consistent with the various RI studies conducted in India as well as other countries. CONCLUSION: This is the first study generating biochemical RIs data among a large representative sample of healthy reproductive-age women recruited using a robust design across the country. The resource may serve as a reference range for common biochemical analytes for future in this age group.

Reference Intervals and Percentiles for Hematologic and Serum Biochemical Values in Captive Bred Rhesus (Macaca mulatta) and Cynomolgus Macaques (Macaca fascicularis).

Several physiological characteristics and housing conditions are known to affect hematologic and serum biochemical values in macaques. However, the studies that have been conducted either report values calculated based on a small number of animals, were designed specifically to document the effect of a particular condition on the normal range of hematologic and serum biochemical values, or used parametric assumptions to calculate hematologic and serum biochemical reference intervals. We conducted a retrospective longitudinal cohort study to estimate reference intervals for hematologic and serum biochemical values in clinically healthy macaques based on observed percentiles without parametric assumptions. Data were obtained as part of the Biomedical Primate Research Centre (Rijswijk, The Netherlands) health monitoring program between 2018 and 2021. In total, 4009 blood samples from 1475 macaques were analyzed with a maximum of one repeat per year per animal. Data were established by species, gender, age, weight-for-height indices, pregnancy, sedation protocol, and housing conditions. Most of the parameters profoundly affected just some hematologic and serum biochemical values. A significant glucose difference was observed between the ketamine and ketamine-medetomidine sedation protocols. The results emphasize the importance of establishing uniform experimental groups with validated animal husbandry and housing conditions to improve the reproducibility of the experiments.

Hematological and biochemical reference intervals of wild-caught and inhouse adult Indian rhesus macaques (Macaca mulatta)

BackgroundNonhuman primates are used for research purposes such as studying diseases and drug discovery and development programs. Various clinical pathology parameters are used as biomarkers of disease conditions in biomedical research. Detailed reports of these parameters are not available for Indian-origin rhesus macaques. To meet the increasing need for information, we conducted this study on 121 adult Indian rhesus macaques (57 wild-sourced and 64 inhouse animals, aged 3–7 years). A total of 18 hematology and 18 biochemistry parameters were evaluated and reported in this study. Data from these parameters were statistically evaluated for significance amongst inhouse and wild-born animals and for differences amongst sexes. The reference range was calculated according to C28-A3 guidelines for reporting reference intervals of clinical laboratory parameters.ResultsSource of the animals and sex appeared to have statistically significant effects on reference values and range. Wild-born animals reported higher WBC, platelets, neutrophils, RBC, hemoglobin, HCT, MCV, and total protein values in comparison to inhouse monkeys. Sex-based differences were observed for parameters such as RBCs, hemoglobin, HCT, creatinine, calcium, phosphorus, albumin, and total protein amongst others.ConclusionsThrough this study, we have established a comprehensive data set of reference values and intervals for certain hematological and biochemical parameters which will help researchers in planning, conducting, and interpreting various aspects of biomedical research employing Indian-origin rhesus monkeys.

Xây dựng giá trị tham chiếu các chỉ số xét nghiệm Sinh hóa tại Trung tâm Xét nghiệm, Trường Đại học Y tế công cộng

Objective: Establish biochemistry reference intervals suitable for the Laboratory center of Hanoi University of Public Health. Methods: The study was carried out based on guidance of CLSI EP28-A3 using indirect sampling method. 8345 normal sample from January 2018 to April 2021 in Laboratory center of Hanoi University of Public Health is used. Results: The results showed that the biochemistry reference intervals was established as below: GLU (3.94-6.38 mmol/L), men (3.94-6.48 mmol/L), women (3.95-6.26mmol/L); CHOL (3.46- 6.06 mmol/L), male (3.55-6.10 mmol/L), female (3.44-6.02 mmol/L); TRI (0.46-2.20 mmol/L), male (0.56-2.24 mmol/L), female (0.44-2.11 mmol/L); URE (2.62-7.10 mmol/L), men (2.93-7.32mmol/L), women (2.48-6.72mmol/L); CRE (53.62-107.09 µmol/L), men (68.58-111.14 µmol/L ), women (50.35-86.54 mol/L); AST (13.46-32.27 U/L, men (14.05- 32.83U/L), female (13.03-30.99 U/L); ALT (7.21-34.14 U/L), men (7,91-35,06 U/L), female (13,03-30,99 U/L). Conclusions: The reference intervals determined in our research have the significant differences to the reference intervals currently used in our laboratory. Key words: Reference interval, Laboratory Center, Hanoi University of Public Health

Establishing haematological and biochemical reference intervals for free-ranging Scottish golden eagle nestlings (Aquila chrysaetos)

Health assessment of individuals is an important aspect of monitoring endangered wildlife populations. Haematological and biochemical values are a common health assessment tool, and whilst reference values are well established for domestic species, they are often not available for wild animal species. This study established 31 haematological and biochemical reference intervals for golden eagle (Aquila chrysaetos) nestlings in Scotland, in order to improve the understanding of the species’ health and support conservation efforts. Reference intervals were created from 47 nestlings (ages 2–7.5 weeks old) across 37 nests, to date, the largest sample of wild individuals of this species and age cohort sampled for these purposes. Upper reference intervals for concentrations of lymphocytes, total protein, cholesterol, triglycerides, uric acid, and monocytes, calculated in this study, are higher than those found for adult raptors and the interval span is higher than that observed in adult raptors for concentrations of AST, albumin, eosinophil, LDH, and monocyte count. Statistically significant positive correlations were found with age and concentrations of haemoglobin, lymphocytes, serum pH, and creatine kinase, and significant negative correlations with age for concentrations of thrombocytes, heterophils, total protein, globulin, and lactate dehydrogenase. Packed cell volume was significantly higher for females than males, and concentration of calcium and eosinophils were higher for individuals in good body condition than those in moderate body condition. The reference intervals produced by this study will be of important use to the veterinary and conservation management communities and will aid the long-term monitoring of the Scottish golden eagle population health.

Comparison Between Effects of Four Crystalloid Solutions on Acid-Base and Electrolyte Abnormalities in Stranded Juvenile Loggerhead Sea Turtles (Caretta caretta).

Dehydration, electrolyte abnormalities, and acid-base alterations are common findings in stranded sea turtles. Fluid therapy is essential for reestablishment of homeostasis. The aim of this study was to compare the efficacy and effects on acid-base and electrolyte status of four different crystalloids (0.9% NaCl solution, 0.9% NaCl and lactated Ringer's solutions 1:1 ratio, Plasmalyte, and Jarchow's solution) in 63 stranded juvenile loggerhead turtles (Caretta caretta). Crystalloid fluids were administered intracoelomically on the day of admission for a duration of three consecutive days at a rate of 20 mL/kg/day through the inguinal fossa. Blood samples were collected at three timepoints: on admission, 24 h after discontinuing fluid therapy and prior to release. Samples were analyzed using a portable electronic blood analyzer for pH, pCO2, pO2, bicarbonate, lactate, sodium, potassium, chloride, glucose, and BUN concentration. Thirty-four loggerhead turtles (53.9%) had some type of acid-base alteration at the time of admission. The combination of 0.9% NaCl and lactated Ringer's solutions resulted in the highest percentage of improved/resolved acid-base and electrolyte abnormalities (33.4 % more animals with normal acid-base status compared to the admission time) compared to Jarchow's solution, which was the least effective (15.8% decrease in the number of animals with normal acid-base status compared to the admission time). This study constitutes the second controlled study of fluid therapy in sea turtles, and corroborates the recommendation made previously on the use of 0.9% NaCl + lactated Ringer solution to resolve mild to moderate acid-base alterations in juvenile loggerhead turtles. In addition, convalescent acid-base, electrolyte and plasma biochemical reference intervals are also provided as a standard profile for sea turtle rehabilitation centers.

Haematological and biochemical reference intervals in healthy Ragdoll cats.

Breed-specific reference intervals (RIs) may be necessary to avoid misinterpretation of laboratory results. The main aim of this study was to establish haematobiochemical RIs for Ragdoll cats. Forty-two clinically healthy adult (0.8-10 years old) Ragdoll cats (Ragdoll population [RP]) and 60 non-Ragdoll cats as the control population (CP) were prospectively enrolled. Results of haematology, biochemistry and total thyroxine (TT4) were used to determine both Ragdoll-specific and general feline population RIs for each variable using Reference Value Advisor software according to the Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute guidelines and the American Society of Veterinary Clinical Pathology guidelines. For each analyte, RIs of the RP were calculated and compared with those obtained from the CP. Haematocrit, haemoglobin, mean cell volume, mean cell haemoglobin concentration, reticulocyte absolute count, platelet count and lymphocyte absolute number were statistically different from the CP. Biochemistry RIs revealed a statistical difference in creatinine kinase (CK), total protein, urea, creatinine, glucose, total calcium and iron. Haematobiochemical RIs of the general feline population must be used with caution in Ragdoll cats when it comes to iron and glucose concentrations, CK activity and absolute lymphocyte number. For these parameters, the use of breed-specific RIs is suggested. The docile and more relaxed nature of this breed may explain these differences and further investigations are necessary to better understand the results. Furthermore, investigations are needed to evaluate the possible benefits of breed-specific urea RIs.

Hematology and biochemistry of critically endangered radiated tortoises (Astrochelys radiata): Reference intervals in previously confiscated subadults and variability based on common techniques.

Madagascar’s radiated tortoises (Astrochelys radiata) are critically endangered, threatened by illegal collection, and confiscated in alarming numbers in recent years. Robust population- and technique-specific hematology and biochemistry reference intervals are valuable yet heretofore missing tools for triage, rehabilitation, and reintroduction of confiscated radiated tortoises. We determined reference intervals in 120 previously confiscated, clinically healthy subadult radiated tortoises living under human care within their native habitat at the Tortoise Conservation Center (TCC). Specific analytes measured were manual packed cell volume, total solids, white blood cell (WBC) count and differentials, and biochemistry analytes using a point of care system. To evaluate the effects of different commonly used techniques on these analytes, we compared results between two venipuncture sites (subcarapacial sinus and brachial vein) and three different WBC quantification methods (Natt and Herrick, Leukopet, and slide estimate). Reference intervals were narrower for most analytes, and sodium and potassium were qualitatively higher in the TCC population compared to previously published values from radiated tortoises housed in North American institutions. Creatine kinase, aspartate aminotransferase, glucose and inorganic phosphorus were all significantly greater in brachial samples than in subcarapacial samples. There was poor agreement and evidence of constant and/or proportional bias between all WBC quantification methods. Differences based on time of sample collection were incidentally found in some analytes. These results highlight the need for considering technique, demographic, and environmental factors in creating and applying reference intervals, and contribute foundational knowledge for improving care of radiated tortoises throughout the confiscation-to-release pathway.

HEALTH STATUS INCLUDING LEAD LEVELS OF NESTLING BALD EAGLES (HALIAEETUS LEUCOCEPHALUS) ON PRINCE EDWARD ISLAND, CANADA IN 2012 AND 2013.

Published research on the health status of wild bald eagles (Haliaeetus leucocephalus) in Eastern Canada is limited. This study examined the health status of 53 nestling bald eagles on Prince Edward Island in the summers of 2012 and 2013, including biochemistry reference intervals, a summary of hematological parameters, and background lead accumulation. Baseline lead levels of greater than 0.02 ppm were noted in nine nestlings, and the odds of lead accumulation decreased with increased weight and body condition score. Biochemical reference intervals were developed using a method outlined by the American Society of Veterinary Clinical Pathology. These intervals can vary between populations based on age and geographic area. These findings will therefore be useful in further research and clinical cases within this population, as well as further research into subclinical lead accumulation in growing raptors.

Complete blood count and biochemistry reference intervals for healthy adult sheep in the northeastern United States.

Reference intervals (RIs) for routine clinicopathologic data in sheep are sparse. The authors sought to establish hematologic and biochemical RIs from a varied ovine population to improve data interpretation for small ruminant veterinarians. The goal of this study was to establish ovine CBC and biochemistry reference intervals by sampling 120 healthy adult sheep, both male and female, from a variety of breeds, located in the Northeastern United States. One hundred and eighteen sheep were included in the CBC RI and 121 sheep were included in the biochemistry panel RI. RIs for 42 CBC and biochemistry analytes were established in accordance with the American Society for Veterinary Clinical Pathology and Clinical Laboratory Standards Institute guidelines. These RIs are provided to assist small ruminant veterinarians with the interpretation of CBC and biochemistry panel results in sheep.