Question
What are the early symptoms of phenylketonuria in children?
Answer
Children with phenylketonuria may show significant delays in activity, growth, and development after the age of 1. Language disorders are often the most pronounced, with symptoms such as awkward gait, fine tremors in the hands, coordination disorders, unusual posture, and repetitive finger movements. The key to treatment is controlling the content of phenylalanine (PA) in their diet. This can be achieved through a low-phenylalanine diet, with infants fed artificial low-phenylalanine formula. Patients should also maintain a light diet and increase their physical activity to enhance their immune system.