People with phenylketonuria (PKU) have trouble breaking down an amino acid, called phenylalanine. Because of this, PKU and similar disorders are sometimes classified as amino acid disorders. Amino acids are chemical ‘building blocks’ the body uses to produce certain proteins that are required for proper growth and development.
Other Questions About Phenylketonuria
- Will my child with phenylketonuria go through puberty the same time as their peers?
- Will my child with phenylketonuria be able to live independently?
- Will my child outgrow phenylketonuria?
- Will my child have to use medical food product for phenylketonuria for their entire life or just a period of time?
- Why is phenylketonuria considered an amino acid disorder?
