In infants with PKU, which statement is accurate?

In infants with PKU, which statement is accurate?

• A. Infants may be treated with special low-phenylalanine formulas
• B. Regular cow's milk is fine
• C. No formula is required
• D. Restriction begins after age 5

Answer: (A)

PKU causes phenylalanine to build up and damage the brain if not kept under control from early life. The best management for infants is to use a special low-phenylalanine formula that provides all the necessary calories and nutrients without adding excess phenylalanine. Regular cow’s milk contains phenylalanine and would raise levels, so it’s not appropriate for infants with PKU. Starting restriction after age 5 would miss the crucial period of brain development, so dietary management begins in infancy as soon as PKU is diagnosed. Ongoing monitoring of phenylalanine levels and adherence to the prescribed formula are essential for healthy development.

PKU causes phenylalanine to build up and damage the brain if not kept under control from early life. The best management for infants is to use a special low-phenylalanine formula that provides all the necessary calories and nutrients without adding excess phenylalanine. Regular cow’s milk contains phenylalanine and would raise levels, so it’s not appropriate for infants with PKU. Starting restriction after age 5 would miss the crucial period of brain development, so dietary management begins in infancy as soon as PKU is diagnosed. Ongoing monitoring of phenylalanine levels and adherence to the prescribed formula are essential for healthy development.