Minnesota newborns will soon be screened for a disease that can lead to delays in developmental milestones, regression of skills, seizures and in some cases death.
The Minnesota Commissioner of Health, Dr. Brooke Cunningham, has approved the state’s Newborn Screening Advisory Committee’s recommendation to add metachromatic leukodystrophy, known as MLD, to the list of conditions for which newborns in Minnesota are routinely screened, according to a press release from the state Department of Health.
The committee will now work toward implementing the screening. The work will include validating a testing method and developing result and follow-up protocols. It is likely the screening will begin in 2026.
”MLD is a type of lysosomal disease, which is caused by an enzyme deficiency leading to a buildup of fats called sulfatides. This buildup causes damage to the brain and nervous system,” the health department press release said.
While there is no cure for the disease, early intervention can help manage symptoms and slow the progression. The screening program expects to identify one baby a year that has the disease and will benefit from early intervention.
For more information, visit the state’s Newborn Screening Program webpage.
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