Among the newborn screening tests offered by Korean birthing facilities are two that are often unfamiliar to expat parents: the Metabolic Disorder Test and the G-Scanning. Here is a basic explanation of the two.*
The Metabolic Disorder Test (선천성 대사이상 검사) is performed from a blood sample drawn between 48 and 72 hours after birth, and aims at the early detection of issues in metabolism that can be entirely asymptomatic in the first few weeks and months of life, but affect the baby’s development and can cause serious permanent damage. With early detection and dietary management, the conditions identified are mostly treatable.
The conditions this tests aims to detect include:
- Phenylketonuria (PKU)
- Congenital Hypothyroidism
- Maple Syrup Urine Disease (MSUD)
- Galactosemia
- Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia (CAH)
- Homocystinuria
- Propionic Acidemia
- Methylmalonic Acidemia
- Isovaleric Acidemia
- MCAD Deficiency
- LCHAD Deficiency.
Results are available within a week.
The G-Scanning (G스캐닝검사) aims at identifying potential chromosome abnormalities or genetic disorders which are often not apparent at birth but could manifest later in life. These include:
- Learning disabilities
- Developmental delays
- Sexual development disorders
- Autistic spectrum disorders
- Epilepsy
- Hereditary genetic conditions.
The G-Scanning is not covered by the Korean National Insurance Program and costs approximately 250,000 Won (some facilities offer a basic and extended version of this test, too). Parents can decide before or after birth whether to have their baby tested for genetic abnormalities during their hospital stay.
Newborn screening tests in Korea also include a blood type test, and a non-invasive hearing test (ALGO 3i), as significative permanent hearing loss is the most common congenital sensory disorder affecting around 3 in 1000 babies. Recently, genetic testing for hearing disorders has become available at certain facilities.
PS: Newborns in Korea are routinely administered a Vitamin K injection and Hepatitis B vaccination shortly after birth. Oral Vitamin K is not available in Korea but can be sourced and administered by the parents themselves after consulting with their medical care provider.
*For more details please refer to your medical care provider.