Metabolic Disorders Follow-up Program

Although the Newborn Metabolic Screen is still commonly called the “PKU” test, the testing has been expanded to include over 50 different conditions. These conditions include:

Inability to break down the sugar in breast milk and most formulas
Inability to break down different proteins
Inability to break down different fats for energy
Presence of abnormal red blood cells or sickle cell disease
Abnormal thyroid function (congenital hypothyroidism)
Abnormal adrenal glands (congenital adrenal hyperplasia)
Cystic fibrosis

The goal of newborn metabolic screening is to identify babies who may have one of these conditions as soon as possible to help prevent problems. Babies who are born and live in the State of Maryland are screened in the hospital 24-48 hours after birth and again in their pediatrician’s office at about 2 weeks of age.

To learn more about newborn metabolic screening, click on the links below.

For Parents

For Providers

Newborn Screening

Follow-up of Abnormal Results:

Nurse Consultant:

Johnna Watson, RN,BSN

443-681-3916

Nurse Consultant:

Mary Jo Harris, RN,MS

443-681-3918

Nurse Consultant:

Linda Lammeree, RN,MA

443-681-3917

Medical Director

Deborah Badawi, MD

410-767-5592