Newborn Screening in Arizona

The State of Arizona implemented its newborn screening program with one thing in mind, to identify a disorder in an infant early in life. If the newborn should test positive to any disorders covered by the newborn screening, then treatment can begin as soon as possible, with the hopes of preventing the disorder from causing more serious medical situations. Newborn screening in Arizona tests the infant for Amino Acid Metabolism Disorders, Fatty Acid Oxidation Disorders, Organic Acid Disorders, Hemoglobin Disorders and other disorders.

Amino Acid Metabolism Disorders occur when the newborn's body cannot break down protein enzymes and they collect in the infant's body, causing harmful diseases. Arizona newborns are screened for Phenylketonuria, Maple Sugar Urine Disease, Homocystinuria, Citrullinemia, Tyrosinemia Type 1 and Argininosuccinic academia. Amino Acid Metabolism Disorders can lead to brain damage, seizures, psychiatric episodes, mental retardation, coma and death if left untreated. These disorders can also lead to osteoporosis, scoliosis, blood clots and cirrhosis of the liver. Treatment for these disorders include low or no protein diets, which consist of special formulas, vegetables and fruits, some breads that are low protein as well as cereals and pastas. Vitamin and mineral supplements are very important in conjunction with a strict diet. If the disorder is caught early enough, the infant may lead a normal healthy life, making newborn screening in Arizona very important.