Question

A mom brings her 3 weeks old for phenylketonuria rescreening blood test. The test indicates a serum level of 1mg/dl. The nurse reviews and makes this interpretation?

1. It is positive
2. It is negative
3. it is inconclusive
4. requires screening at age 6 weeks

Answer 1

A serum level of 1mg/dl in a PKU rescreening blood test for a 3-week-old baby is a negative result for phenylketonuria, indicating non-elevated levels of phenylalanine and an absence of the disorder.

Step-by-step explanation:

The correct interpretation of a serum level of 1mg/dl in a phenylketonuria (PKU) rescreening blood test for a 3-week-old baby is that it is negative. This indicates that the levels of phenylalanine are not elevated, which would suggest a lack of the disorder. Typically, levels above the normal range, which is usually around 2 mg/dl or higher, would indicate a positive test for PKU, warranting further intervention and treatment such as a strict diet low in phenylalanine. It is important to closely monitor dietary intake as phenylalanine is found in high concentrations in artificial sweeteners including aspartame and in some animal products and certain starches. The rescreening helps to ensure that earlier tests did not miss a case of PKU, given its significant impacts on neurological development and possible consequences for pregnant individuals with the condition.