Question

Can adults develop phenylketonuria?

Answer

Phenylketonuria is a common genetic disorder of amino acid metabolism, and it is also a chromosomal recessive genetic disease. Symptoms usually begin to appear within 3 to 6 months after a baby is born, with clinical manifestations including intellectual, activity, and growth delays. The most distinctive feature is a mouse urine-like odor. Adult onset is extremely rare. Early detection and treatment of this disease can yield good results.