The UK NSC recommendation on Glutaric Aciduria Type 1

Find general information about population health screening.

Why is screening recommended by UK NSC?

The UK NSC has recommended screening for Glutaric aciduria type 1 (GA1) within the current Newborn Blood Spot Screening Programme. A one year evaluation of screening in the UK found that screening for this rare inherited organic acid disorder will identify babies early and lead to treatment to help prevent serious problems developing.  

More about GA1

A baby with Glutaric Aciduria Type 1 (GA1) has problems breaking down the particular amino acids lysine and tryptophan.

In children with GA1, a minor illness, such as a chest infection or a tummy upset, can lead to serious problems and the child would require immediate hospital treatment. Early signs may be vomiting, excessive sleepiness and breathing difficulties.

Without treatment the child can go into a coma and many patients die in early adulthood. If they recover from the coma there is a high likelihood of brain damage that can affect their ability to control muscles and movements. This means that they may be unable to sit, walk, talk or swallow.

>>More information about GA1 can be found on NHS Choices

Some frequently asked questions on the expanded blood spot policy were developed following the 2014 recommendations and can be found here. 

Screening in the UK

Compare how screening is offered across the UK.

Stakeholders

• British Association of Perinatal Medicine
• British Inherited Metabolic Disease Group
• Children Living with Inherited Metabolic Diseases
• Clinical Genetics Society
• Faculty of Public Health
• Genetic Alliance UK
• Institute of Child Health
• MetBio
• Royal College of General Practitioners
• Royal College of Midwives
• Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health
• Royal College of Physicians
• Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Glasgow
• Royal College of Physicians of Edinburgh
• Save Babies Through Screening Foundation UK
• UK Newborn Screening Laboratories Network

The stakeholder groups will be involved when the recommendation is next reviewed. If you think your organisation should be added, please contact us. More information for stakeholders can be found in appendix C of the UK NSC evidence review process.

Recommendation Review History

The policy was first recommended in 2014 following the conclusion of a one year study between 2012 and 2013 that included GA1 and four other conditions.

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