Melamine

By now I imagine most of you have heard about the melamine-tainted powdered baby formula in China. If not, here are a few links that outline the issue:

China Daily
Wikipedia
Danwei
World Health Organization
New York Times

When the story broke I felt two very strong emotions. First, heartache for the babies that had died or became seriously ill as a result of the tainted formula. Second, complete outrage that a company would knowingly put a chemical compound used as a flame retardant and fertilizer into baby formula.

I knew that, Sanlu, the company that was under investigation made the brand of formula that Lily was given while in China. However, I thought the melamine contamination was a fairly recent and not ongoing problem. I was wrong. In late October I did a little more research and learned that there is evidence that the formula contained melamine as far back as 2005!

In the over 18 months since we've been home Lily has shown no signs of kidney problems. However, I still thought I should call Lily's pediatrician, Dr. Lane. I discussed with Dr. Lane the protocol listed on The Center For Adoption Medicine's website for testing children for melamine exposure.

Dr. Lane agreed with the recommendations but thought we should test Lily even though she was asymptomatic. Dr. Lane ordered a urinalysis and renal ultrasound. If either of these test came back with anything to be concerned about Dr. Lane would then schedule Lily for blood work. Dr. Lane's goal was to avoid Lily having to have a needle stick if it wasn't 100% necessary.

Lily had the renal ultrasound done last Friday. The technician was wonderful with Lily, the test was non eventful, and Lily enjoyed having "pictures" taken of her kidneys...even telling them to say, "Cheese!"

Late this afternoon we got the results back from the ultrasound. It turns out our little pumpkin has what appears to be very small stones in both of her kidneys. I'm in shock and more than a little weepy. First thing tomorrow morning I will be calling to make an appointment with a pediatric urologist that Dr. Lane recommended. I will let you know as soon as we know more.

I know our Lily girl will be just fine...but please keep her in your prayers!