Metascreen

Metascreen is a non-invasive metabolic screening test developed and distributed by Cordlife Group Limited. It is designed to detect up to 110 different types of inborn errors of metabolism (IEMs), also known as metabolic disorders, from a simple urine specimen. The test is intended for early diagnosis and intervention in infants and young children, often shortly after birth.

Cordlife owns the Metascreen trademark and brand name, and the test forms part of the company’s suite of preventive and diagnostic healthcare services.

Methodology

Metascreen utilizes advanced mass spectrometry and biochemical analysis to identify metabolic conditions that may otherwise go unnoticed during infancy. These conditions can affect the body's ability to properly break down or utilize certain proteins, fats, or carbohydrates, leading to the accumulation of harmful substances or a deficiency of necessary compounds.

Conditions detected

Metascreen can identify disorders across various metabolic categories, including but not limited to:

• Amino acid metabolism disorders
• Fatty acid oxidation disorders
• Organic acidemias
• Carbohydrate metabolism disorders
• Urea cycle disorders

Examples of specific conditions screened by Metascreen include:

• Phenylketonuria (PKU)
• Maple syrup urine disease
• Medium-chain acyl-CoA dehydrogenase deficiency (MCADD)
• Glutaric acidemia type I
• Galactosemia

Procedure

Metascreen is a painless, non-invasive test that requires only a small sample of the baby's urine. The collection is typically done at home using a sterile collection kit provided by Cordlife. Once the sample is collected, it is sent to a certified laboratory for analysis.

Advantages

• Non-invasive compared to heel prick tests
• Screens for a broader range of IEMs (up to 110 conditions)
• Early detection may help prevent irreversible damage or developmental delays
• Allows for early dietary or therapeutic intervention

Cordlife Group Limited

Cordlife Group Limited is a consumer healthcare company listed on the Singapore Exchange (SGX), specializing in cord blood banking, diagnostic testing, and maternal-child healthcare services. It operates in multiple Asian markets including Singapore, India, Hong Kong, Malaysia, Indonesia, and the Philippines.

See also

• Inborn error of metabolism
• Newborn screening
• Cordlife Group Limited
• Phenylketonuria
• Mass spectrometry

External links

• Cordlife Official Website
• Metascreen - Cordlife Singapore