BabySecure: Newborn Screening

What is a BabySecure Newborn Screening?

BabySecure Newborn screening is a simple test done 24 hours after (not before) a baby is born to identify serious disorders the baby might have been born with. These disorders, if undetected and untreated, can have adverse consequences for the baby. If a baby is born with a disorder, BabySecure helps identify it early so that treatment can start before the disorder causes any harm to the baby. Using advanced technologies like Tandem Mass Spectrometry (TMS) and Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GCMS), the BabySecure test screens for the early identification of metabolic and genetic conditions, enabling healthcare providers to initiate treatment on time.

List of Conditions Covered by BabySercure Newborn Screening

Fatty Acid Oxidation Disorders Organic Acid Disorders Amino Acid Disorders
Urea Cycle Disorders Congenital Hypothyroidism Galactosemia
Cystic Fibrosis Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia G6PD
Biotinidase Deficiency Phenylketonuria Sickle Cell Anemia
Hb Variants

Clinical Applications of BabySecure Newborn Screening Test

  • Early Detection of Disorders: The test identifies serious metabolic and genetic disorders early to ensure timely medical intervention and prevent complications even before symptoms arise.
  • Comprehensive Screening: This neonatal screening test covers over 100+ disorders, including metabolic, amino acid, and hemoglobinopathies, ensuring that a wide range of conditions are detected in one test.
  • Minimal Sample Requirements: The NBS test requires a small blood spot and/or urine sample, making it safe and non-invasive for newborns.

Specifications

  • Sample type: Dried Blood Spot (DBS), Urine sample
  • How to collect blood spot: The first step is to make a painless heel prick. A few drops of blood from the baby’s heel are then placed on a special type of filter paper. The paper is allowed to dry and is then sent to the lab where tests are performed using Tandem Mass Spectrometry (TMS) and other technologies.
  • How to collect urine sample: Urine samples from a newborn can be collected by placing the special filter paper card in the baby’s diaper and checking every 30 minutes, ensuring that the urine is passed and absorbed over the filter. Alternatively, urine sample can be collected in a sterile urine container (10-20 ml) and dipping the special filter paper card.

BabySecure Newborn Screening Tests Offered by MedGenome

Key Highlights of MedGenome's Newborn Screening Panel

Comprehensive Coverage

This metabolic screening test for newborns detects a wide range of metabolic, biochemical, and hemoglobin-related disorders, ensuring a wide range of conditions are detected early.

Largest CAP-Accredited Lab

MedGenome operates the largest CAP-accredited genomics lab in South Asia, guaranteeing the highest quality, reliability, and precision standards in newborn screening tests.

Pre- and Post-Test Genetic Counseling

Parents benefit from expert genetic counselling sessions provided by certified, multilingual professionals to help interpret the results of neonatal screening tests and offer guidance on the next steps.

What is the BabySecure Newborn Screening Test?

Newborn Screening is a diagnostic test conducted shortly after birth to identify serious genetic disorders. MedGenome offers the BabySecure newborn screening portfolio, a collection of simple and painless tests designed to detect critical inherited metabolic conditions in newborns. Performed 24 hours after birth (not earlier), this screening enables early detection of disorders that could impact your baby’s health if left untreated. Timely diagnosis allows for prompt intervention, giving your baby the healthiest possible start in life.

Newborn Screening Sample Collection Process

Type of Test How It’s Done
Dried Blood Spot 1. The process begins with a painless heel prick to collect a few drops of blood from the baby’s heel.
2. The collected blood is carefully placed on a specialised filter paper.
3. The filter paper is allowed to dry and then sent to the laboratory for analysis using Tandem Mass Spectrometry (TMS) and other advanced technologies.
Urine Organic Acid Analysis by GCMS 1. The urine sample can be collected in two ways:
- A special filter paper card is placed in the baby’s diaper, and the urine is checked every 30 minutes to ensure it is passed and absorbed on the card.
- Alternatively, the sample can be collected in a sterile urine container (10-20 ml), and the filter paper dipped into the urine.
2. The sample is analysed using Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GCMS) to detect more than 100 disorders.
MedGenome scientist conducting genetic testing and DNA test services in India

Why is Newborn Screening Important?

This metabolic screening test for newborns is crucial because it ensures early identification of metabolic and genetic disorders in newborns, many of which don’t show symptoms immediately. Early detection through BabySecure newborn screening tests enables timely intervention and treatment, preventing long-term complications.

What Conditions Can Newborn Screening Test Detect?

MedGenome clinician reviewing patient records to support genetic testing and DNA test in India

When to Consider a Newborn Screening Test?

Newborns should be tested between 24 to 72 hours after birth. However, even if this window is missed, this NBS test can still be performed at any time, as there is no age limit. It’s essential to conduct this metabolic screening test for newborns as early as possible because early detection enables immediate treatment.

What Do Newborn Screening Test Results Mean?

MedGenome diagnostic imaging supporting advanced genetic testing and DNA test services in India

Why Choose MedGenome for BabySecure Newborn Screening Test?

  • Comprehensive Screening: BabySecure newborn screening test covers over 65 disorders, including metabolic, biochemical, and hemoglobin-related conditions. This extensive coverage ensures that your baby gets a thorough health check right from the start.
  • Fast Turnaround Time: With results delivered in just 24-48 hours, MedGenome ensures you get quick answers, allowing immediate follow-up if any concerns are detected.
  • Advanced Technology: The test uses cutting-edge technology like Tandem Mass Spectrometry (TMS) and GCMS to identify various potential disorders accurately.
  • Largest CAP-Accredited Lab in South Asia: We operate the largest CAP-accredited genomics lab in South Asia to ensure the highest standards of accuracy and reliability.
  • Expert Genetic Counselling: MedGenome offers free genetic counselling with certified experts who guide you through the results and next steps.

FAQs

  • How much does newborn screening cost in India?

    The cost of a newborn screening in India can vary depending on the healthcare provider or lab. However, it is an affordable test considering its importance in detecting serious metabolic disorders and other conditions early, ensuring timely treatment for your baby.

  • What sample is used for newborn screening test?

    A newborn screening test typically requires a small blood sample from your baby, collected via a heel prick. Depending on the specific conditions being screened, a urine sample may also be collected using special filter paper or a sterile container.

  • What is the turnaround time for a newborn screening test ?

    The turnaround time for neonatal screening test is usually between 24 and 48 hours. This fast turnaround ensures that any potential issues can be identified quickly, allowing for early intervention and treatment if necessary.

  • Are there risks associated with newborn screening tests?

    This newborn baby test is a safe and straightforward procedure. Although the heel prick may cause brief discomfort to your baby, no significant risks are associated with the test. Early detection far outweighs the minor discomfort, as it helps identify serious health conditions.

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