What are phenylketonurics?

Answer by  Diddum (348)

Phenylketonuria (PKU) can be defined as a rare metabolic disorder caused by a deficiency in the production of the hepatic (liver) enzyme phenylalanine hydroxylase (PAH). PKU is the most serious form of a class of diseases all of which involve above normal (elevated) levels of phenylalanine in the blood.

Answer by  John (9008)

Phenylketonurics are people who are born with an allergy to phenylalanine, a common preservative. This preservative is used in most foods, and is especially common in heavily processed foods like soda and chips. People who suffer from phenylketonuria (as the disease is known) must avoid even trace amounts of phenylalanine or face severe medical problems, including brain damage.

Answer by  Gabriel (2146)

Phenylketonurics are people who suffer from phenylketonuria, a metabolic disorder that is caused by an enzyme deficiency. People with this disorder have to limit the amount of phenylalanine they consume, or risk mental retardation and seizures.