The arrival of a newborn marks a significant life milestone, and from the moment of pregnancy, a child’s health becomes paramount. For a strong start, MedLabs’ Newborn Screening, the only one of its kind in Jordan, offers a comprehensive test overseen by highly qualified specialists.
What is Neonatal Screening?
A neonatal screening test is a simple procedure performed within the first 14 days of a baby’s life to identify metabolic and genetic disorders. Early detection of these conditions allows for effective treatment and management, greatly improving outcomes.
How is Newborn Screening Done?
The screening requires only a few drops of blood from the baby’s heel, collected by a trained nurse or health professional. The sample is then sent to the lab for in-depth testing.
Why Perform a Neonatal Screen?
Some babies may be born with underlying conditions that appear undetectable at birth but could lead to serious physical or mental challenges if left untreated. Early screening allows for prompt intervention, helping prevent severe outcomes and supporting a healthy, fulfilling life for the child.
Types of Disorders Screened
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Amino Acid Disorders
This includes phenylketonuria (PKU), maple syrup urinary disease (MSUD), homocystinuria, and various types of tyrosinemia, among others.
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Fatty Acid Disorders
It covers conditions like Carnitine Palmitoyltransferase Deficiency Types I & II, Very Long-chain Acyl-CoA Dehydrogenase Deficiency (VLCADD), and medium-chain Acyl-CoA Dehydrogenase Deficiency (MCADD).
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Organic Acid Disorders
Includes Malonic Aciduria, Propionic Aciduria, Methylmalonic Aciduria, and other metabolic imbalances.
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Other Disorders
Screening can also detect hemoglobinopathies (S, C, D, E & O Arab variants), cystic fibrosis (IRT), congenital adrenal hyperplasia, galactosemia, G6PD deficiency, congenital hypothyroidism (TSH), and biotinidase deficiency.
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New Disorders
Recently added screenings include X-linked adrenoleukodystrophy (X-LAD), ADA-SCID, Argininosuccinic Acid Lyase Deficiency (ASA-LD), and additional urea cycle disorders.
Methodology
MedLabs’ Metabolic Disorders Department utilizes advanced neonatal screening technology, such as:
- LC-MS/MS (Tandem Mass Spectrometry)
- Victor2D DELPHIA System
- Isoelectric Focusing (IEF) Gel Electrophoresis
- Bar-Coded Sample Tracking System
MedLabs’ screening methodologies help ensure accurate, reliable results, allowing families to make informed health decisions for their newborns.
