Question
Is phenylketonuria hereditary in the family? What is the mode of inheritance for phenylketonuria across generations? Will it be inherited to my son across generations? How can it be mitigated if it is inherited, and is it treatable?
Answer
The mode of inheritance for phenylketonuria, based on inheritance across generations, is an amino acid metabolism disorder that may be inherited by your son. It is difficult to self-heal and is primarily managed through dietary treatment. The younger the child, the better the relief effect. You can decide on a low phenylalanine milk formula for feeding, and when providing complementary foods during infancy, it should be based on low-protein foods such as starches, vegetables, and fruits. The treatment period may require continuous management for about twenty years. If either parent has this condition, DNA testing or screening for bilirubin in amniotic fluid during pregnancy must be conducted.