Anomalous screening outcomes from click-evoked otoacoustic emissions and auditory brainstem response tests.

Transiently evoked otoacoustic emissions (TEOAE) and auditory brainstem response (ABR) tests were used in parallel to screen 862 neonates with risk factors for hearing loss. Seven neonates (0.81%) passed on TEOAE screen yet failed on ABR in one ear (six neonates) or both ears (one neonate).

Specific malabsorption of vitamin B12 in Down's syndrome.

A 3 year old girl with Down's syndrome became lethargic and withdrawn, and investigations showed a specific malabsorption of vitamin B12 without proteinuria.

Auditory screening of special care neonates using the auditory response cradle.

The Linco-Bennett auditory response cradle is a microprocessor controlled device for screening the hearing of neonates. A total of 396 neonates admitted to a special care unit were tested on the cradle and later followed up in a comprehensive test programme between the ages of 3 months and 8 months. Altogether 374 (94%) were available for follow up.

Glutaric aciduria type II: biochemical investigation and treatment of a child diagnosed prenatally.

Two sibs with the acute neonatal form of glutaric aciduria type II (deficient in vivo activity of multiple acyl-CoA dehydrogenases) are described. In the second case diagnosis was made prenatally on the basis of reduced oxidation of palmitate by cultured amniotic fluid cells. With prompt intervention in the neonatal period and a carefully controlled diet later, this second progressed well up to 4 months of age but died suddenly of cardiac failure, probably attributable to accumulation of fat.

Value of the gastric aspirate shake test.

The results and predictive value of the gastric aspirate shake test are reviewed in 432 preterm babies admitted to a neonatal unit during a 3-year period. It is concluded that the degree of prematurity is a better indicator of the chance of developing idiopathic respiratory distress syndrome than the test itself.

Respiratory depression due to unsuspected narcotic ingestion treated with naloxone.

Two patients are presented with respiratory depression for which no cause was apparent. Both had ingested narcotics without the parents' knowledge. Narcotic ingestion should be suspected if signs of respiratory failure with constricted pupils are present, and a diagnostic test with naloxone should be performed.