Megha Sharma MD, MS , Andrew W. Brown PhD , Simon Chung MS , Kevin W. Sexton MD , Mario Schootman PhD , Peter M. Mourani MD
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引用次数: 0
Abstract
Objective
To examine the objective differences and overlap in skin pigment among neonates born to mothers of different racial groups.
Study design
We conducted a prospective study assessing neonatal skin tone by spectrophotometry using SkinColorCatch (Delfin, Miami, FL) at the pulse oximetry site (dorsum of foot) in neonatal and cardiac intensive care units. Colorimetric indices were compared between non-Hispanic Black (NHB) and non-Hispanic White (NHW) neonates using Welch's t test. Distribution overlap was evaluated using the overlap coefficient and the probability of a higher value. Bivariate regression assessed the relationships between colorimetric indices and neonatal characteristics, including gestational age and birth weight. A P value of <.05 was considered significant.
Results
Among 100 neonates (33 NHB, 57 NHW, 7 Hispanic, 3 other), skin darkness measures (melanin index, perceived lightness, and individual typology angle [ITA°]) were significantly different between NHB and NHW infants. However, substantial overlap was observed: overlap coefficient of 0.66 (95% CI, 0.51-0.83) for the melanin index and 0.73 (95% CI, 0.57-0.90) for the ITA°. The probability of higher value was 0.27 (melanin index) and 0.69 (ITA°), further demonstrating overlap. Lower gestational age and birth weight correlated with darker skin tone characteristics and this association did not differ significantly by race.
Conclusions
Despite statistical differences, NHB and NHW neonates exhibit substantial overlap in objectively assessed skin color. These findings support the use of direct skin pigmentation measurements in device accuracy studies rather than race-based classifications, helping to decrease bias in medical algorithms and device research.
期刊介绍:
The Journal of Pediatrics is an international peer-reviewed journal that advances pediatric research and serves as a practical guide for pediatricians who manage health and diagnose and treat disorders in infants, children, and adolescents. The Journal publishes original work based on standards of excellence and expert review. The Journal seeks to publish high quality original articles that are immediately applicable to practice (basic science, translational research, evidence-based medicine), brief clinical and laboratory case reports, medical progress, expert commentary, grand rounds, insightful editorials, “classic” physical examinations, and novel insights into clinical and academic pediatric medicine related to every aspect of child health. Published monthly since 1932, The Journal of Pediatrics continues to promote the latest developments in pediatric medicine, child health, policy, and advocacy.
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