Neonatal testing or newborn screening is the testing of infants shortly following their birth – usually within 24-hours. The test involves taking a small amount of blood. The method consists of a simple prick to the heel. While seemingly innocuous, this small sample of blood is invaluable.
The Importance of Neonatal Testing
Neonatal screening is an extremely important tool against serious diseases and life-threatening conditions. Testing is essential for the following reasons:
1. No infant is born without the potential for having a disease or other health issue present
2. It is not possible to tell from looking whether a new-born has any of the diseases checked for
3. Often, the family history does not indicate the potential of a newborn having a genetic, hormone-related and/or metabolic condition
4. The diseases being tested for are serious. They could threaten the present and/or future well-being of the infant
5. If the medical profession and family are unaware of the condition existing, they are not able to address the problem and rectify it.
Neonatal testing is a central tool in the early recognition and diagnosis of a disorder or medical condition. With knowledge of the situation, doctors can intervene and, therefore, reduce the potential for future consequences and complications resulting from a disease that may cause damage to the nervous system damage, negatively affect intellectual development and/or result in physical disabilities. At its worst, if the medical problem is not treated, death may result.
Neonatal Testing Is Important
Children may be born into this world suffering from unseen conditions. Whether they are genetic, metabolic or hormone-related, the issue is not always visible. Neonatal testing provides doctors with the means through which early detection is possible. Therefore, preventive measures can be taken.
High-quality and precise diagnostic kits from reputable companies such as Trinity Biotech are there to ensure all invested parties are aware of any non-visible health issues. This provides everyone with the specific information necessary to address the situation appropriately and quickly.
