Neonatal cystic fibrosis screening

Alternative names:

cystic fibrosis screening, neonatal; immunoreactive trypsinogen

How the test is performed:

The area is cleansed with antiseptic and punctured with a sharp needle or a lancet. The blood is collected onto a test strip. Cotton or a bandage may be applied to the puncture site if there is any continued bleeding.

How to prepare for the test:

Your health care provider will explain the test to you and that false positives and false negatives are possible. You must sign a consent form before the test.

How the test will feel:

When the needle is inserted to draw blood, some people feel moderate pain, while others feel only a prick or stinging sensation. The brief feeling of discomfort will probably cause your baby to cry.

Why the test is performed:

Cystic fibrosis is a genetic disease affecting the sweat glands, respiratory, and gastrointestinal function. This test is a preliminary screening tool to earmark those infants that need further testing to confirm the diagnosis.