PKU results in severe, permanent, neurological and developmental damage unless it is detected and treatment begins soon after birth. It occurs in about 1 in every 15,000 infants. In 1999, seven infants were detected with this disorder. Treatment consists of a special diet low in phenylalanine.
Affected infants develop normally with proper dietary control.
A team of health care professionals specializing in the management of PKU works closely with each family to optimize the child's dietary compliance through intensive education and support services. The metabolic treatment formula necessary for the management of the disorder is distributed directly to families by the Office of Newborn Screening to assure availability and to reduce cost.