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Normal Repeat Newborn Screen Result
If the first screen showed a markedly elevated level of C3 a
normal second screen result is reassuring BUT does not rule out
PA or MMA. Therefore, the metabolic physician may want to continue
treating the baby as though he/she has PA or MMA while awaiting
the results of more definitive tests.
Once the metabolic team has confirmed that the infant does not
have PA or MMA, it is essential to reassure the family that their
baby is well and that they should treat their baby as entirely
normal. Many people can be traumatized by a false positive result
and counseling may be appropriate. If the metabolic physician
remains concerned, however, then he/she will discuss this further
with you and may decide to continue with frequent feeds and early
intervention if the baby becomes sick. It is important to remember
that this does not mean that the baby has PA or MMA but only that
the metabolic doctor is taking a cautious approach until definitive
results are available to keep the baby safe and well.
Abnormal repeat newborn screen result.
An elevated C3 on the second sample is very suspicious of PA
or MMA and further evaluation by the metabolic doctor is definitely
required. The baby must be treated as though he/she has PA or
MMA while definitive testing is carried out. See C3
markedly elevated, probable PA or MMA discussions in first
newborn screening result section.
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