CARE OF THE ADULT WITH PHENYLKETONURIA

Forty-three adults with classical phenylketonuria were identified by n eonatal screening and treated with a phenylalanine (Phe) restricted di et. Nineteen have remained on dietary treatment with varying levels of blood Phe control and 24 have discontinued the diet at an average age of 7.8 years. Follow up at an average age of 22 years revealed that t he cohort remaining on dietary treatment have achieved substantially b etter social and academic achievement than the 24 who discontinued die tary treatment. Another group of 19 adults who were not diagnosed unti l an average age of 2.5 years have also been evaluated after an averag e of 22 years on a Phe restricted diet. This report is based upon Wech sler Adult Intelligence Revised Test scores, attendance at college, em ployment and marital status.