Pitfalls of neonatal screening for very-long-chain acyl-CoA dehydrogenase deficiency using tandem mass spectrometry

J Pediatr. 2006 Jul;149(1):128-30. doi: 10.1016/j.jpeds.2006.02.037.

Abstract

Neonatal screening programs for very-long-chain acyl-CoA dehydrogenase deficiency (VLCADD) have recently been implemented. We report 2 newborns with elevated C14:1-carnitine levels on day 3 of life and normal levels on days 5 to 7. Enzyme and molecular analyses confirmed VLCADD in the first patient and heterozygosity in the second patient. We conclude that the diagnosis of VLCADD can be missed by acylcarnitine analysis during anabolic conditions. An increased C14:1-carnitine level can also occur in heterozygous individuals. Elevated C14:1-carnitine level on neonatal screening warrants further diagnostic workup even if a repeat sample demonstrates normal acylcarnitine levels.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Acyl-CoA Dehydrogenase, Long-Chain / deficiency*
  • Acyl-CoA Dehydrogenase, Long-Chain / genetics
  • Carnitine / analogs & derivatives
  • Carnitine / analysis
  • Child, Preschool
  • Female
  • Genetic Carrier Screening
  • Humans
  • Infant, Newborn
  • Metabolism, Inborn Errors / diagnosis*
  • Metabolism, Inborn Errors / genetics
  • Mutation, Missense
  • Neonatal Screening / methods*
  • Spectrometry, Mass, Electrospray Ionization*

Substances

  • acylcarnitine
  • Acyl-CoA Dehydrogenase, Long-Chain
  • Carnitine