Patient's question:
When the child went for a health check-up, it was found that the child had phenylketonuria. I want to know if phenylketonuria in newborns is serious?Doctor's answer:
Phenylketonuria (PKU) is a serious disease that causes significant damage to newborns, leading to intellectual disabilities in children. Since phenylalanine is an essential amino acid required for protein synthesis, its complete absence can result in neurological harm. The primary treatment is a dietary approach, and the earlier the treatment begins, the better the outcome. Therefore, specially formulated low-phenylalanine formula should be fed to infants during the early stages of life. During the toddler period, complementary foods should be based on low-protein foods such as starches, vegetables, and fruits. Dietary restrictions should be maintained at least until after puberty.