Intermediate
Technical
IVT
presumptive positive
Initial screening result suggesting possible presence of a condition requiring follow-up testing.
Full Definition
A presumptive positive is an initial newborn screening result that falls outside normal parameters and suggests the possible presence of a screened condition. This result does not confirm a diagnosis but indicates the need for immediate follow-up testing to determine if the infant actually has the condition. The term emphasizes that additional testing is required before any diagnostic conclusions can be made.
Usage
Usage note: Preferred over 'positive' to emphasize the preliminary nature of the result.
In Context
- "The presumptive positive result for galactosemia required immediate dietary restrictions pending confirmatory testing." — clinical guidance
- "Families are contacted within 24 hours of any presumptive positive screening result." — program protocol
Also known as
abnormal screening result
out-of-range result
Contrasted with
normal result
negative result
Don't confuse with
positive result
confirmed positive