New test approved for newborns in Minnesota

Minnesota newborns will soon be screened for a condition that can lead to delays in developmental milestones regression of skills seizures and in certain cases death The Minnesota Commissioner of Medical Dr Brooke Cunningham has approved the state s Newborn Screening Advisory Committee s recommendation to add metachromatic leukodystrophy known as MLD to the list of conditions for which newborns in Minnesota are routinely screened according to a press release from the state Department of Vitality The committee will now work toward implementing the screening The work will include validating a testing method and evolving end and follow-up protocols It is likely the screening will begin in MLD is a type of lysosomal illness which is caused by an enzyme deficiency leading to a buildup of fats called sulfatides This buildup causes damage to the brain and nervous system the wellbeing department press release reported While there is no cure for the infection early intervention can help manage signs and slow the progression The screening plan expects to identify one baby a year that has the illness and will benefit from early intervention For more information visit the state s Newborn Screening Project webpage Related Articles These researchers are trying to diagnose CTE during life They re recruiting former football players First at-home test kit for cervical cancer approved by the FDA company says FDA will allow three new color additives made from minerals algae and flower petals Despite historic indictment doctors will keep mailing abortion pills across state lines When they don t recognize you anymore