Protect Your Newborn’s Future with Early PKU Detection
As a new parent in South Africa, your baby’s health is your top priority. The Phenylalanine Newborn Screen Test offers peace of mind by detecting Phenylketonuria (PKU) early – a condition that, if untreated, can cause serious developmental delays and intellectual disabilities. This simple, reliable screening could be the most important health decision you make for your newborn’s future.
Understanding the Phenylalanine Newborn Screen
This specialised test measures phenylalanine levels in your newborn’s blood to identify Phenylketonuria (PKU), a rare inherited metabolic disorder. Babies with PKU cannot properly break down phenylalanine, an amino acid found in protein-rich foods. Without early detection and treatment, elevated phenylalanine levels can damage the developing brain, leading to permanent intellectual disability.
Our advanced fluoroimmunoassay technology ensures precise measurement of phenylalanine levels, providing accurate results you can trust for your baby’s health decisions.
Every Newborn Deserves This Protection
This screening is recommended for all newborns within the first few days of life, as PKU shows no visible symptoms at birth. Early detection is critical because:
- PKU affects approximately 1 in 10,000-15,000 babies worldwide
- The condition is treatable with early intervention
- Without screening, symptoms may not appear until irreversible damage has occurred
- Family history of PKU increases risk, but most cases occur without known family history
Why Early Detection Matters for Your Baby’s Health
Early PKU detection through newborn screening provides life-changing benefits:
- Prevents Intellectual Disability: Early dietary treatment can completely prevent the developmental delays associated with PKU
- Enables Normal Development: Babies who receive early treatment develop normally and lead healthy lives
- Provides Peace of Mind: Knowing your baby is screened reduces anxiety about hidden health conditions
- Cost-Effective Prevention: The ZAR 100 screening cost is minimal compared to lifelong care for untreated PKU
- Simple Intervention: Treatment involves special formula and dietary management, not medication
Understanding Your Baby’s Results
We understand that waiting for test results can be stressful. Our process is designed to provide clarity and reassurance:
- Normal Results: Most babies receive normal results, providing immediate peace of mind
- Elevated Levels: If phenylalanine levels are elevated, we provide immediate guidance and referral to paediatric specialists
- Clear Explanation: All results include easy-to-understand explanations and next steps
- Expert Support: Our team is available to answer questions and provide support throughout the process
Remember: An elevated screening result requires follow-up testing for confirmation, and most babies with elevated screening results do not have PKU.
Affordable Protection for Your Newborn’s Future
| Service | Regular Price | Special Price | Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| Phenylalanine Newborn Screen | ZAR 100 | Prevents lifelong disability |
Turnaround Time: Sample Monday through Friday by 9 am; Report Next day
Sample Required: 1 drop of heel prick blood each on 3 spots of filter paper
Clinical details and drug history must accompany sample. Ship refrigerated or frozen.
Why South African Parents Trust Oracle Genomics
- Nationwide Coverage: Available in Johannesburg, Cape Town, Durban, Pretoria and across South Africa
- Medical Expertise: Specialised paediatric screening with accurate fluoroimmunoassay technology
- Rapid Results: Next-day reporting for timely intervention
- Proven Accuracy: Advanced testing methods ensure reliable results
- Patient-Focused Care: Empathetic support throughout the testing process
Secure Your Newborn’s Healthy Development Today
Don’t leave your baby’s neurological development to chance. This simple ZAR 100 test could prevent lifelong challenges. Early detection means early intervention, and early intervention means a healthy future.
Limited Time Offer: Special ZAR 100 pricing available for a limited time. Regular price ZAR 150.
Convenient Nationwide Access: Available at our testing centres across South Africa including major cities and regional locations.