Services on Demand
Journal
Article
Spanish (pdf)
Article in xml format
Article references
Automatic translationRelated links
Share
Permalink
Anales de la Facultad de Medicina
On-line version ISSN 2301-1254
Abstract
BALSECA ARTOS, Eddy Efren; CASTELLANO CASTELLANO, Fabian Gustavo; CAMPOVERDE LOOR, Carolina Alejandra and ALCIVAR HERRERA, Diana María. Classic phenylketonuria with delayed initiation of dietary therapy: a case report. Anfamed [online]. 2025, vol.12, n.2, e402. Epub Dec 01, 2025. ISSN 2301-1254. https://doi.org/10.25184/anfamed2025v12n2a4.
Phenylketonuria is a rare inborn error of metabolism caused by a deficiency of the enzyme phenylalanine hydroxylase, which can lead to irreversible neurological damage. Although its incidence varies geographically, it remains one of the most significant conditions screened through neonatal testing.
Case presentation:
A 7-month-old infant was diagnosed with classic phenylketonuria, confirmed at 8 weeks of age through elevated phenylalanine levels. Due to logistical delays, the infant continued on exclusive breastfeeding, which sustained hyperphenylalaninaemia. Following the introduction of a specialised metabolic formula, there was a marked improvement in plasma phenylalanine levels. Psychomotor development has remained appropriate, and the child continues under multidisciplinary follow-up.
Conclusion:
This case highlights the importance of neonatal screening for the early detection of preventable metabolic disorders such as phenylketonuria. Timely dietary intervention prevented severe neurological complications, reinforcing the need to strengthen the Neonatal Metabolic Screening Programme and to ensure comprehensive follow-up in specialised centres. Moreover, this report provides relevant regional clinical evidence and may serve as a reference for improving the management of similar cases in settings with limited prior experience.
Keywords : Phenylketonuria; Case Report; Hyperphenylalaninemia; Metabolic Screening; Psychomotor Development.
