What Is Phenylketonuria?
4. How Severe Is PKU?
The severity of PKU varies from mild to severe. In the milder or more moderate cases, the body still produces some of the enzyme that breaks down phenylalanine; therefore, the degree of accumulation is lower. In these instances, the risk of developing severe symptoms declines. However, even in these less severe forms, the best outcomes require treatment.
Classic PKU describes the more severe form of the disorder. This classic form results in little to no enzyme production, significantly increasing the risks of severe symptoms when treatment is not followed. If treatment is maintained, then the likelihood of developing symptoms is low.
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