Table 1 Different modes of screening used for a different types of birth defects
Type Birth defect | Example | Mode of screening |
|---|---|---|
Visible birth defect | Neural Tube defect, cleft lip, limb deformities, club foot | Visual screening. Detected through proper head to toe physical examination |
Functional defects | Congenital deafness, congenital cataract, congenital glaucoma | Identified with the help of non-invasive instruments and clinical examination |
Metabolic disorders | Congenital Hypothyroidism, congenital adrenal Hypoplasia, G6PD, Sickle cell disease | Through blood investigations. Newborn Blood spot screening |
Chromosomal abnormalities and genetic disorders | Down syndrome | Through visible anthropometric measurements |
Neurological disorders | Congenital Cerebral Palsy, IUGR (Intrauterine Growth Restriction) associated with birth defect | Through observing behavioral patterns and developmental delays |