Phenylketonuria (PKU)
Phenylketonuria (PKU) is an inborn error of metabolism involving impaired metabolism of phenylalanine, one of the amino acids. Untreated PKU can lead to intellectual disability, seizures, and other serious medical problems.
Part of: Inborn Errors of Metabolism
About PKU
Phenylketonuria (pronounced fen-l-kee-toh-NOOR-ee-uh), often called PKU, is an inherited disorder that that can cause intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDDs) if not treated. In PKU, the body can’t process a portion of a protein called phenylalanine, which is in all foods containing protein. If the phenylalanine level gets too high, the brain can become damaged.
All children born in U.S. hospitals are tested routinely for PKU soon after birth, making it easier to diagnose and treat affected children early.
Children and adults who are treated early and consistently develop normally.
Depending on the level of phenylalanine and tolerance for phenylalanine in the diet, PKU is classified into two different types: classic, which is the severe form, and moderate. Therefore, each patient needs an individualized treatment plan. Some people may benefit from a medication called sapropterin dihydrochloride (brand name Kuvan®) that treats the disorder…Read more about PKU NIH – National Institute of Child Health and Human Development