The diagnosis of neonatal disorders often involves a combination of clinical assessments and diagnostic tests. Common diagnostic tools include:
- Physical Examination: This is the first step where healthcare providers look for visible signs such as cyanosis, jaundice, and abnormal heart sounds. - Blood Tests: These include complete blood count (CBC), blood cultures, and metabolic screening to detect infections, blood disorders, and metabolic imbalances. - Imaging Studies: Techniques like ultrasound, X-rays, and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) are used to evaluate internal organs and structures. - Genetic Testing: This is particularly useful for diagnosing inherited conditions and congenital anomalies.