phenylketonuria
/ˌfɛnəlˌkiːtəˈnʊriə/
noun
- A genetic disorder in which the body cannot break down an amino acid called phenylalanine, which can build up and cause brain damage if not treated with a special diet.
- Thanks to early screening, phenylketonuria can be managed with a strict diet.
- Babies are tested for phenylketonuria shortly after birth.
- People with phenylketonuria must avoid foods high in protein.