Newborn Screening
Conditions Tested
Galactosemia
Galactosemia is an inherited disorder which affects the body´s ability to breakdown galactose. Galactose is a sugar that is found in the disaccharide lactose or milk sugar. The buildup of galactose in the blood and other tissues of newborns with galactosemia begins soon after the infant begins taking milk (including breast milk) and infant formulas which contain lactose. Symptoms of galactosemia include vomiting, jaundice, failure to thrive and sepsis. Treatment involves elimination of lactose (and hence, galactose) from the diet. Without prompt treatment, neonatal mortality is high often due to E. coli sepsis.
Primary Hypothyroidism
The thyroid gland makes a hormone that is important for normal growth and development. Primary hypothyroidism occurs when the baby´s thyroid gland does not make enough thyroid hormone. Early diagnosis and treatment with medication can prevent mental retardation and problems in growth and development.
Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia (CAH)
CAH is an inherited disorder that affects the way the body produces certain hormones that control vital body functions. If a baby has CAH, the body cannot make these hormones. Early diagnosis and treatment with hormones will prevent abnormal development and death.
Sickle Cell Disease
Sickle cell disease is an inherited disorder. This disease affects the way the body makes hemoglobin, a substance inside the red blood cells that carries oxygen throughout the body. Individuals with sickle cell anemia have serious health problems that can lead to frequent hospitalizations. Early diagnosis and treatment with penicillin can prevent serious illnesses and possible death.
Biotinidase
Infants born with biotinidase deficiency are not able to recycle biotin, a B vitamin. This vitamin is not produced by the body and thus is only available from dietary sources. Biotinidase deficiency does not allow the body to release protein-bound biotin for use in the metabolism of fats, carbohydrates, and proteins. If untreated, infants with biotinidase deficiency can suffer from neurological abnormalities and developmental delay.
An amino acid profile and acylcarnitine profile are measured to detect disorders in fatty acid oxidation, organic acid metabolism and amino acid using electrospray tandem mass spectrometry (MS/MS).
Fatty Acid Oxidation Disorders
Fatty acid oxidation disorders are caused by a genetic defect or absence of metabolic enzymes involved in breakdown of fatty acids that produce energy. These disorders are detected by certain levels of acylcarnitines in the blood. Some elevated levels and waste effects can be toxic. Symptoms can be variable including vomiting, lethargy, coma and death. Treatment involves avoidance of fasting, low fat diet, and dietary supplements.
Organic Acid Disorders
Organic acid disorders are caused by a genetic defect or absence of metabolic enzymes involved in breakdown or activation of organic acids. These disorders are detected by increased levels of certain acylcarnitines in the blood. Some elevated levels and waste effects can be toxic. Symptoms include poor feeding, vomiting, seizures, metabolic acidosis, coma and death. Treatment involves dietary protein restriction and dietary supplements.
Amino Acid Disorders
Amino acid disorders are caused by a genetic defect or absence of certain metabolic enzymes. These disorders are detected by increased levels of certain amino acids in the blood. Symptoms can include severe developmental and mental retardation, seizures, autistic-like behavior, failure to thrive, vomiting, diarrhea, fever, jaundice, progressive liver disease, eye disorders, anorexia, hyperammonemia, coma, convulsions, lack of muscle tone and death. Treatments involve dietary restrictions and supplements.
See also:
- Newborn Screening
- Disorders Tested
- Conditions Tested
- Specimen Collection
- Reporting
- Screening Update
- Form Training
