Health Information
Phenylketonuria (PKU) Test
What Affects the Test
Reasons your baby may not be able to have the test or why the results may not be helpful include:
- Your baby was born early (premature). A baby who weighs less than 5 lb (2.3 kg) may have high levels of phenylalanine but not have phenylketonuria (PKU).
- Your baby has been drinking milk for less than 24 hours. Best results occur after your baby has been breast-feeding or drinking formula for 2 full days.
- Your baby is vomiting or refusing to eat. If the PKU test is done before your baby has eaten for 2 days, the results may not be correct.
- Your baby is getting Reference antibiotics Opens New Window.
| By: | Reference Healthwise Staff | Last Revised: Reference June 19, 2012 |
| Medical Review: | Reference John Pope, MD - Pediatrics
Reference Chuck Norlin, MD - Pediatrics |
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