What is phenylketonuria?

Phenylketonuria (PKU) is a genetic disorder in which the body can't process part of a protein called phenylalanine (Phe). Phe is in almost all foods. If the Phe level gets too high, it can damage the brain and cause severe mental retardation.

How do members experience phenylketonuria?

Top 5 symptoms reported by people with phenylketonuria*

*Reports may be affected by other conditions and/or medication side effects. We ask about general symptoms (anxious mood, depressed mood, fatigue, pain, and stress) regardless of condition.

Top treatments taken by people for phenylketonuria*

Who has phenylketonuria on PatientsLikeMe?

Age

Age Proportion # of patients
<20 5
20s 6
30s 5
40s 7
50s 3
60s 2
70+ 0

Distribution of sex

Sex

Sex Proportion # of patients
Male 9
Female 18