Preventative Screening

State Metabolic Screen - This is a blood test performed at 36 hours of life and repeated at 2 weeks of age. The State of Texas currently screens for 27 different disorders. These are all diseases that would otherwise go undiagnosed until serious problems occurred. For more information, check out the Texas Department of State Health Services website http://www.dshs.state.tx.us/newborn/expandparent.shtm.

Hearing Screen - The State of Texas now requires that all newborns have their hearing tested before leaving the hospital. This simple test identifies children with congenital deafness.

Hematocrit - This is a blood test performed at one year of age to evaluate your child for anemia. This test may be repeated again if your doctor feels it is necessary.

Urinalysis - A urine sample is obtained at age 5 to evaluate for diabetes and kidney function. This test may be repeated as necessary.

Tuberculosis (TB) test - This skin tests demonstrates exposure to tuberculosis, an infectious lung disease. We recommend screening certain high risk individuals such children who have immigrated from or traveled to Asia, the Middle East, Africa, and Latin America. We also screen children who are in regular contact with individuals from these areas. Other high risk indivuals include children who have had contact with individuals with known TB, HIV, or IV drug use. Also at risk are children exposed to people who have been in jail, homeless shelters, or nursing homes.

Vision Screen - A vision test is performed at age 4 and may be repeated as necessary.

Lead Screening - This blood test demonstrates exposure to lead, which can cause anemia and neurologic problems. Routine testing is not performed. If your child lives in or frequently visits a house built before 1978 that has chipping or peeling pain or has been recently remodeled, we need to check their lead level. Other risk factors include children with friends or family members who have been diagnosed with lead poisoning and children who live with anyone whose job or hobby involves exposure to lead (such as painting, soldering, auto battery manufacturing or recycling, or auto radiator repair).

Cholesterol Screening - This blood test identifies children who have elevated levels of fat that can lead to heart disease and high blood pressure. Routine testing is not performed. If someone in the family has had problems with high cholesterol, or heart problems before the age of 55, please notify your doctor.