Phenylalanine plays a role in the body's production of melanin, the pigment responsible for skin and hair color. Therefore, infants with the condition often have lighter skin, hair, and eyes than brothers or sisters without the disease.
Other symptoms may include:
Delayed mental and social skills Head size significantly below normal Hyperactivity Jerking movements of the arms or legs Mental retardation Seizures Skin rashes Tremors Unusual positioning of hands
If the condition is untreated or foods containing phenylalanine are not avoided, a "mousy" or "musty" odor may be detected on the breath and skin and in urine. The unusual odor is due to a build up of phenylalanine substances in the body.
What are the symptoms of Phenylketonuria?
Phenylalanine plays a role in the body's production of melanin, the pigment responsible for skin and hair color. Therefore, infants with the condition often have lighter skin, hair, and eyes than brothers or sisters without the disease.
Other symptoms may include:
Delayed mental and social skills Head size significantly below normal Hyperactivity Jerking movements of the arms or legs Mental retardation Seizures Skin rashes Tremors Unusual positioning of hands
If the condition is untreated or foods containing phenylalanine are not avoided, a "mousy" or "musty" odor may be detected on the breath and skin and in urine. The unusual odor is due to a build up of phenylalanine substances in the body.