Short Description

The aim of newborn screening is to detect diagnostic markers of treatable disorders in blood spots collected from pre-symptomatic newborns. Early identification of disorders significantly improves long term prognosis of affected patients, minimizes complications, avoids unnecessary diagnostic testing and identifies families for whom pre-natal genetic counselling may be helpful.

PreTest Information

Clinical details and drug history must accompany sample.

Detail Description

Newborn Screening Panel Extended Test – Cost INR 7000, Symptoms, Diagnosis

Newborn Screening Panel Extended Test is a comprehensive test that screens newborn babies for various disorders that may not be apparent at birth. The test is done to detect any underlying medical conditions that may affect the baby's health in the future. In this blog, we will discuss the symptoms, diagnosis, and cost of the Newborn Screening Panel Extended Test in India.

Symptoms

Most of the conditions tested in the Newborn Screening Panel Extended Test are not easily detectable by symptoms. However, a few conditions may show some signs that parents can be watchful for:

• Cystic Fibrosis: The baby may have difficulty in breathing, poor growth, and frequent lung infections.
• Galactosemia: The baby may have diarrhea, vomiting, and jaundice.
• Phenylketonuria (PKU): The baby may have seizures, delayed development, and behavioral problems.
• Hypothyroidism: The baby may have poor feeding, lethargy, and slow growth.

Diagnosis

The Newborn Screening Panel Extended Test is done by collecting a small sample of blood from the baby's heel. The blood sample is then sent to a laboratory for analysis. The test is usually done within 48-72 hours of birth. The laboratory analyzes the blood sample for various disorders, and the results are sent to the doctor who ordered the test. If any abnormality is found, further tests may be needed to confirm the diagnosis.

Cost

The cost of the Newborn Screening Panel Extended Test in India is around INR 7000. The cost may vary depending on the location, laboratory, and doctor's fees. The test is not covered by insurance, but some hospitals may offer it as part of their newborn care package.

Conclusion

The Newborn Screening Panel Extended Test is a vital test that can detect underlying medical conditions in newborns that may affect their health in the future. Parents should discuss the benefits and risks of the test with their doctor and make an informed decision. It is also essential to be watchful for any symptoms that may indicate an underlying condition and seek medical attention immediately. The cost of the test may vary, but it is a small price to pay for the peace of mind that comes with knowing your baby is healthy.

For more information about the Newborn Screening Panel Extended Test, please contact DNA Labs India.