PT - JOURNAL ARTICLE AU - Leanne Gauld AU - Lucy Keeling AU - Peter Sly AU - Claire Shakleton TI - Predicting height from ulna length in 2-6 year olds DP - 2013 Sep 01 TA - European Respiratory Journal PG - P1265 VI - 42 IP - Suppl 57 4099 - http://erj.ersjournals.com/content/42/Suppl_57/P1265.short 4100 - http://erj.ersjournals.com/content/42/Suppl_57/P1265.full SO - Eur Respir J2013 Sep 01; 42 AB - Height predicts normal spirometry and Forced Oscillation Technique (FOT) values. Its measurement can be difficult with mobility or joint problems. Prediction equations from ulna length to height and spirometry exist for 7-18 year olds.1 For young children, use of existing prediction equations have not been assessed.Aim: To assess if published height prediction equations are appropriate in children 2-6 years, and develop new equations where appropriate.Methods: Children (2-6 years) were recruited from childcare, excluding those with medical conditions. Height was measured with a Harpenden Stadiometer and ulna length with Harpenden callipers. Regression analysis devised prediction equations from ulna length to height. Student t test assessed differences between actual height, and the value predicted by the published prediction equation.Results: 234 children were recruited, mean age: males 3.73 ±1.09, females 3.70 ±1.09 years. 34 (12.82%) were excluded. A linear relationship exists between ulna length and height 2-18 years. The prediction equation for males is: 4.629*ulna + 1.340*age +26.974 (R2 0.97, RMSE 3.84); for females: 4.577*ulna + 1.343*age + 28.345 (R2 0.96, RMSE 3.78). The published prediction equation overestimates height in males (mean +1.11cm ±1.72, p<0.001) and females (mean +2.47cm ±1.84 p<0.001). Racial differences exist.Conclusion: In children aged 2-6 years in whom height measurement is difficult, new prediction equations for height from ulna length should be used as published prediction equations overestimate height in young children.1. Gauld et al. Devel Med Child Neurol 2004:46;475-480.