genetic blood tests, which can confirm the diagnosis of SMA. an electromyography (EMG) test that measures the electrical activity of a muscle or a group of muscles (in some cases) a creatine kinase (CPK) test (to distinguish from other types of neuromuscular diseases, if necessary)

How do you know if your baby has SMA?

Children who have noticeable SMA symptoms at or shortly after birth usually are very weak; have difficulty breathing, sucking, and swallowing; and never reach the developmental milestone of being able to sit on their own (SMA type 1 or Werdnig-Hoffmann disease).

How much does SMA testing cost?

While a genetic test for SMA costs just under $500, more than 12,500 women would have to be screened to prevent one case of SMA, which affects only about 1 in 10,000 newborns.