HealthWise KnowledgeBase
Phenylketonuria (PKU) Test
Why It Is Done
A phenylketonuria (PKU) screening test is done to see whether a newborn baby has the enzyme needed to use Reference phenylalanine Opens New Window in his or her body. If this test shows that your baby has a phenylalanine problem, the doctor will do further testing to check whether your baby has PKU.
It's important for your baby to have this screening test soon after birth. If a baby has PKU and treatment starts right away, problems (such as brain damage) are less likely to occur.
| By: | Reference Healthwise Staff | Last Revised: Reference June 19, 2012 |
| Medical Review: | Reference John Pope, MD - Pediatrics
Reference Chuck Norlin, MD - Pediatrics |
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