What
type tests will they perform on my newborn?
Why
are these tests necessary?
How
can I get the test results?
What type tests will they
perform on my newborn?
The hospitals in Michigan work with the Michigan Department of Public
Health to provide screening of all newborns for seven different rare
but serious diseases. While your new baby is still in the hospital, a
few drops of blood will be taken from his or her heel, placed on a special
test paper, and sent to the Michigan Department of Public Health Laboratory.
This one sample will be used to test for phenylketonuria (FEN-il-KE-to-NU-re-ah)
which is also called PKU, and 6 other conditions which could affect the
well-being of your newborn.
Why are these tests necessary?
Fortunately, these diseases occur very rarely. Yet, it is important
to screen for them because if not treated, they can cause mental retardation,
poor growth, and in some cases, death. The good news is that babies with
any of these serious conditions do very well if a special diet or medical
treatment is started early in life. While symptoms of these diseases may
not be seen right away, the blood test, called the "NEWBORN SCREEN"
provides early identification so treatment can be started promptly.
How can I get the test results?
The Michigan Department of Public Health will notify your baby's health
care provider of the test results. If your baby is tested at less than
24 hours of age, it is recommended that a second test be done within one
week of your baby's birth to double check the results. The repeat test
can be done by your baby's health care provider.
You will be given written information about the "NEWBORN SCREEN"
while you are in the hospital after your baby's birth.
This
information is approved and/or reviewed by U-M Health System providers
but it is not a tool for self-diagnosis or a substitute for medical
treatment. You should speak to your physician or make
an appointment to be seen if you have questions or concerns about
this information or your medical condition.