Newborn Screening

Newborn Screening is the practice of testing all babies in their first days of life for certain disorders and conditions that can hinder their normal development. This testing is required in every state and is typically performed before the baby leaves the hospital. Early detection and treatment can prevent intellectual and physical disabilities and life-threatening illnesses.

The newborn screening usually begins with a blood test 24 to 48 hours after a baby is born, while he or she is still in the hospital. This test is performed by pricking the baby’s heel to collect a few drops of blood. There are very few risks associated with this test and it involves minimal discomfort to the baby. The disorders included in newborn screening vary from place to place. Most of the conditions included in newborn screening can cause serious health problems if treatment is not started shortly after birth. Prompt identification and management of these conditions may be able to prevent life-threatening complications.

In newborn screening the baby will be tested for the following family inherited and hormonal problems. It includes Phenylketonuria, Congenital Hypothyroidism, Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia, Sickle cell disease, Thalassemia, Galactosemia, Biotinidase, Cystic Fibrosis, Hearing Loss. NBS started with the discovery that the aminoacid disorder phenylketonuria could be treated by dietary adjustment and that early intervention was required for the best outcome. Infants with PKU appear normal at birth but are unable to metabolize the essential amino acid phenylalanine, resulting in irreversible intellectual disability.

If the test result was positive, this does not necessarily mean that your baby has any of these health problems. This test only finds babies that are at increased risk for these health problems. More testing and examination by specialists are then usually required to find out if the disorder is present. The extra testing is important because early diagnosis and treatment can prevent many health-related problems.

The treatment for each condition is different. Treatment may include a special diet, hormones and or medications. If your baby has one of these conditions, it is very important to consult with a medical diagnostic centre for Newborn Screening Dubai

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