What does the "reference range" refer to in laboratory tests?

The term "reference range" in laboratory tests is specifically defined as the values considered normal for a laboratory test. These ranges are established by testing a large group of healthy individuals and analyzing the results to determine the expected variation in test results among a healthy population.

Reference ranges account for factors such as age, sex, and method of testing, which can impact the values. They provide a benchmark for interpreting individual test results, helping clinicians determine whether a patient's results fall within a typical range or indicate a potential health concern. By comparing a patient's results to the established reference range, healthcare professionals can make informed decisions regarding diagnosis and treatment.

Other concepts, like the idea that a reference range is the same across laboratories or that it indicates disease presence, are misinterpretations of the term. Each laboratory might have its specific reference ranges based on their equipment and the population they test. Similarly, while values outside the reference range may suggest disease, the range itself is not an indicator of illness but rather a marker of normalcy.