Overview | Indications | Applications | Reporting Benefits |
Sample Requirement | Methodology | Limitations |
Newborn Screening Test (NBS) is the baby’s first test that
Early signs of newborn hemoglobinopathy include:
Newborn screening includes tests that are easy to diagnose and treatment is possible if detected early.
These tests include
NBS can detect various metabolic disorders of the newborn such as
Other rare but serious medical problems detected in newborn screening are:
Sample for NBS is either dry blood or fresh cord blood
Screenings are done using the following methods:
A few drops of blood are taken from the babys heel and are sent to a lab for analysis. This is often read by the time the newborn is around five to seven days old.
A health care provider will place a tiny earpiece or microphone in the infant's ear. Another method uses electrodes that are put on the baby's head while the baby is quiet or asleep.
A provider will place a small soft sensor on the baby's skin and attach it to a machine called an oximeter for a few minutes. The oximeter will measure the babys oxygen levels in the hand and foot.