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Meta-Analysis of Neuropsychological Symptoms of Adolescents and Adults with PKU

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Abstract

Phenylketonuria (PKU; OMIM 261600) is an autosomal recessive inborn error of phenylanaline metabolism. PKU is characterized by deficient or defective phenylalanine hydroxylase activity and persistantly increased levels of the essential amino acid phenylalanine in the circulation. The present article examines current understanding of the etiology of PKU, along with a meta-analysis examining neuropsychological and intellectual presentations in continuously treated adolescents and adults. Patients with PKU differed significantly from controls on Full-Scale IQ, processing speed, attention, inhibition, and motor control. Future research utilizing an integrative approach and detailed analysis of specific cognitive domains will assist both the scientist and clinician, and ultimately the patient.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. School of Psychology, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Australia

    J. J. Moyle & A. M. Fox

  2. Department of Dietetics and Nutrition, Royal Perth Hospital, Perth, Australia

    M. Arthur

  3. Department of Radiology, Royal Perth Hospital, Perth, Australia

    M. Bynevelt

  4. Department of Core Clinical Pathology and Biochemistry, PathWest Laboratory Medicine WA, Royal Perth Hospital, Perth, Australia

    J. R. Burnett

  5. School of Medicine and Pharmacology, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Australia

    J. R. Burnett

  6. c/- The Brain Resource Company Level 12, 235 Jones St Ultimo, NSW 2007, Perth, Australia

    J. J. Moyle

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Moyle, J.J., Fox, A.M., Arthur, M. et al. Meta-Analysis of Neuropsychological Symptoms of Adolescents and Adults with PKU. Neuropsychol Rev 17, 91–101 (2007). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11065-007-9021-2

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