Validating a new formula for weight estimation in pediatric cancer patients

Mohammed Hegazy and Eman Taher

International Research Journal of Medicine and Medical Sciences
Published: February 21 2013
Volume 1, Issue 1
Pages 34-39

Abstract

Child resuscitation requires actual weight measurement if possible. Multiple pediatric weight estimations are now available. Garwood and McEwen developed a new formula (age in months/4) +6. The aim of the study is to validate this formula versus advanced pediatric life support formula and Shann formula among pediatric cancer patients. Cross sectional study was conducted in 508 pediatric patients aged 1 to 16 years attending outpatient clinic at the children cancer hospital (57357 hospitals). Their age and actual weight were recorded. Accuracy of weight estimation was done using mean bias, 95% agreement, mean percent error, and estimation within 10 and 20% from actual weight. The mean bias from actual weight of the new formula was 1.3 kg versus -2 kg for Shann formula. The new formula outperformed the other two formulae in the age group 11 to 16 with a mean bias 0.8 kg and percent error -5.9% versus 8% for Shann formula. The new formula is among the more accurate age-based weight estimation formulae especially for older children. It is an acceptable option for estimating children's weight.

Keywords: Advanced Pediatric Life Support formula, Garwood and McEwen formula, pediatric weight estimation, Shann formula.

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