Kantapääpistoksesta

Kantapääpistoksesta, often translated as heel prick or heel stick, is a common medical procedure performed on newborns. Its primary purpose is to obtain a small blood sample for various diagnostic tests. This sample is crucial for screening a range of serious, but treatable, genetic, metabolic, and hormonal disorders that might not be apparent at birth.

The procedure involves a quick and gentle puncture of the infant's heel with a small, sterile lancet. The heel is chosen because it contains a good supply of blood and is easily accessible, while minimizing discomfort for the baby. Following the puncture, a few drops of blood are collected onto a special filter paper card. This card is then sent to a laboratory for analysis.

Common tests conducted from a heel prick sample include screening for phenylketonuria (PKU), congenital hypothyroidism, and cystic fibrosis. Early detection through these screenings allows for prompt intervention, which can significantly improve the long-term health outcomes for affected infants, preventing severe developmental delays or other complications. While the prick itself may cause brief discomfort, the benefits of early diagnosis are substantial.