Metabolic Screening: Understanding Tests, Purposes & Benefits

Metabolic screening is a series of tests that measure the levels of various metabolites in a person's blood or urine. This screening can be done for a variety of reasons, including:

* To identify genetic disorders: Some genetic disorders, such as phenylketonuria (PKU) and maple syrup urine disease, can be identified by measuring the levels of certain metabolites in the blood or urine.

* To monitor health conditions: Metabolic screening can be used to monitor health conditions such as diabetes, kidney disease, and liver disease.

* To evaluate nutritional status: Metabolic screening can be used to assess a person's nutritional status and identify nutrient deficiencies.

* To screen for drug use: Metabolic screening can be used to detect the presence of drugs of abuse in the body.

Metabolic screening is typically performed by a doctor or other healthcare professional. The tests can be done in a doctor's office, a hospital, or a laboratory.