What Is Phenylketonuria?
5. What Are the Potential Complications?
The importance of following prescribed treatment does not end after childhood. Older children, teens and adults who do not adhere to diet and other recommendations experience complications from too much phenylalanine in the system. Intellectual and developmental disabilities that can develop beginning in the first months are irreversible.
There is the potential for neurological issues ranging from tremors to seizures. Older children and adults can still develop significant social, emotional and behavioral problems, as well as other health issues. Adult women who have too much of the amino acid in their blood during pregnancy place themselves and their babies at risk.
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