Referensvärde

Referensvärde is a benchmark value used to interpret measurements in various fields, most commonly in medical laboratory science. In clinical testing, referensvärde usually refers to the referensintervall, the range of values expected for a healthy population. Individual test results are interpreted in relation to this range to determine whether they are within normal limits or indicate a potential health issue.

The referensvärde is established by collecting data from a defined reference population and analyzing the distribution of measurements. A common approach is to define the reference interval as the central 95 percent of values, often corresponding to the 2.5th to 97.5th percentiles. Some laboratories may use mean values plus or minus a certain number of standard deviations. Values can be method- and population-specific, and they may vary with age, sex, ethnicity, and fasting status. Updates may be needed when measurement methods change or new reference data become available.

Use and limitations: A result within the referensintervall is not a guarantee of health, but it is considered normal for the reference population under defined conditions. Values outside the interval may prompt clinical review, further testing, or treatment decisions. Reference values are also used in instrument calibration and quality control to ensure accuracy and comparability of measurements.

Distinctions: A referensvärde is different from critical or threshold values that require urgent action, or from public health thresholds and dietary guidelines that guide recommendations. The term emphasizes a benchmark for normal variation rather than a specific action boundary.