Will my newborn be tested for long QT syndrome?

Long QT syndrome is not one of the conditions included on newborn screening tests. The purpose of newborn screening programs are to identify newborns at risk of a potentially fatal or disabling condition as early as possible, ideally prior to any signs or symptoms. The goal is to diagnose early and treat as soon as possible to mitigate effects of the condition. Long QT syndrome presents in adolescence and/or adulthood, there is no need to include this on any newborn screening tests. Furthermore, it is not an easy or straightforward diagnosis to make. Therefore, unless there is a personal or family history of long QT syndrome, individuals are not routinely screened for long QT syndrome.

Other Questions About Long QT syndrome

• Will my newborn be tested for long QT syndrome?
• Where is there a center of excellence in long QT syndrome?
• Where can I find clinical trials on long QT syndrome?
• When do people present with symptoms of long QT syndrome?
• What tests are required for a diagnosis of long QT syndrome?