IRT
Pronunciation: I-R-T
Also written as: IRT — Immunoreactive trypsinogen
Immunoreactive trypsinogen, a pancreatic enzyme measured in newborn screening to detect cystic fibrosis.
Full Definition
Immunoreactive trypsinogen is a pancreatic enzyme that becomes elevated in the blood of newborns with cystic fibrosis due to obstruction of pancreatic ducts by abnormally thick secretions. This elevation occurs before clinical symptoms develop, making IRT measurement an effective screening tool for early CF detection. Elevated IRT levels trigger follow-up testing including sweat chloride measurement or CFTR gene mutation analysis to confirm or rule out cystic fibrosis diagnosis.
Usage
Usage note: Always use all capitals for IRT. Spell out 'immunoreactive trypsinogen' on first use in clinical communications.
In Context
- "The IRT level exceeded the 99th percentile, prompting immediate cystic fibrosis evaluation." — Laboratory result interpretation
- "IRT screening has significantly improved early detection rates for cystic fibrosis." — Program effectiveness review