States require that newborns have a blood test within 1-2 days after birth. This blood is then used to test for a number of "hidden" disorders which deal with the body's ability to make and use hormones, proteins, sugars, or blood cells. These disorders, if not treated, can result in a wide range of issues for the baby, including death. The March of Dimes recommends testing for 29 of these disorders, and the state of Kentucky actually tests for 47 different disorders.
Yesterday, we received a letter from the state indicating that George needed to have a repeat screening performed. My first thought was that we have not been through hell these past few years only to have something wrong with one of my precious babies! However, the request for repeat screens is quite common. One of the main reasons for repeat screens is that there was not enough blood placed on the screening card, and the state did not even run the tests - they just tell you that a repeat is needed.
Another reason for repeat screens is apparently due to the lab reference ranges. Ironically, we just spoke to friends last weekend that had a similar issue with their baby boy. Thankfully he is perfectly healthy - but that was not determined until his parents had been put through 4 months of worry. In their research, they found out that the state of KY has lower lab reference ranges for many of the disorders, resulting in a very high rate of false positives, which is what happened with their baby.
Anyway, George went back to the hospital yesterday to have his labs repeated. We should have the results in about a week. While I'm fairly certain that everything will be just fine, extra prayers won't hurt!
No comments:
Post a Comment