The University of Houston: NUTR XXXX, PKU Nutrition Care Process

This assignment addresses the application of the nutrition care process in managing Phenylketonuria (PKU), an inborn error of metabolism. It begins with a discussion of the screening procedure, tandem mass spectrometry, and the diagnostic confirmation of PKU. The assignment then delves into the pathophysiology of PKU, highlighting the genetic mutation affecting phenylalanine metabolism and its consequences if left untreated, including neurological and gastrointestinal symptoms. It further explores the long-term complications, such as cognitive impairment, organ damage, and musculoskeletal disorders. The assignment also examines dietary considerations, including protein and calorie needs, and the use of synthetic tetrahydrobiopterin. It analyzes patient results, diagnosing hyperphenylalaninemia and hypotyrosinemia, and assesses the compliance of a prescribed diet with NIH recommendations, emphasizing phenylalanine, tyrosine, and protein intake levels. The assignment concludes with a discussion on dietary monitoring and the importance of avoiding high-phenylalanine foods.