newborn screening programme
IVA
A baby with Isovaleric Acidaemia (IVA) has problems breaking down the amino acid, leucine. For people with IVA, eating too much protein can cause harmful substances to build up in the blood. Babies with IVA can become severely unwell. Early signs may be vomiting, excessive sleepiness, floppiness and rapid breathing. Without treatment, IVA can lead to a coma and permanent brain damage.
Read more about IVA on the NHS website.
UK NSC screening recommendation Based on the last UK NSC review of this condition that occurred in May 2014.
The UK NSC has recommended screening for IVA within the current Newborn Blood Spot Screening Programme. A one year evaluation of screening in the UK concluding that screening for this rare inherited organic acid disorder will identify babies early and lead to treatment to help prevent serious problems developing.
Supporting documents from the 2014 review
Screening around the UK
The UK NSC recommends screening for this condition, however this may vary slightly depending on where you are in the UK.
Review cycle
Date previous review completed: 2014
Next review estimated to be completed: 2021 to 2022.
To see previous evidence reviews, visit the UK NSC archive.
Organisations interested in IVA
These organisations have expressed interest in this recommendation and may submit responses to evidence reviews.
List of organisations
- ArchAngel MLD Trust
- British Association of Perinatal Medicine
- British Inherited Metabolic Disease Group
- Clinical Genetics Society
- Faculty of Public Health
- Genetic Alliance UK
- Institute of Child Health
- Metabolic Support UK
- MetBioNet
- 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
- UK Newborn Screening Laboratories Network
If you think your organisation should be added, please contact us.