Phenylketonuria (PKU) TestPhenylketonuria (PKU) TestWhat To Think About- When the PKU test is done within 24 hours
of birth, there is a small chance that the test result will not be accurate (false-negative or false-positive). Your baby may need to be tested
again. There is less chance of a false result if the test is
done between 24 and 72 hours after birth.
- If your baby has PKU, he or she will need regular blood tests to check phenylalanine levels. These tests may occur as often as once a week in your baby's first year and then once or twice a month throughout childhood.
- A blood test for
phenylalanine may be done if you have PKU and plan to
become pregnant. If you eat too much protein, you will have high levels of
phenylalanine in your blood. If you become pregnant, the high levels of
phenylalanine could cause your baby (fetus) to have
intellectual disability, even if your baby does not have PKU. It is
important that everyone with PKU see a specialist for nutritional counseling.
Phenylalanine levels should be below 6 mg/dL at least 3 months before you
become pregnant. Recommended phenylalanine levels during pregnancy are 2 mg/dL
to 6 mg/dL, and you should be tested at least once a week.
- A test
for phenylalanine levels in urine may be done if your baby is now over 6 weeks
of age and did not have a PKU blood test 2 to 3 days after birth. A PKU heel
stick can be done up to 6 weeks of age and has better results than a urine
test. A urine test may be done to check phenylalanine levels during treatment
with low-protein foods.
- If your baby has PKU, a special low-protein
diet is needed to prevent
intellectual disability. Your baby will drink milk
substitutes that do not contain phenylalanine. People with PKU need to stay on a low-protein diet for
life to prevent problems.
Medical Review: John Pope, MD - Pediatrics Chuck Norlin, MD - Pediatrics Last Updated: June 19, 2012 |
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