Intermediate
Technical
In the Industry Vocabulary Test
PKU
Pronunciation: P-K-U
Also written as: PKU — phenylketonuria
Abbreviation for phenylketonuria, a genetic disorder affecting amino acid metabolism.
Full Definition
The standard medical abbreviation for phenylketonuria, a genetic condition that impairs the body's ability to process the amino acid phenylalanine. PKU is one of the core conditions tested in virtually all newborn screening programs due to its preventability through early dietary intervention. The abbreviation is widely recognized in medical literature and clinical practice, though the full term should be spelled out in patient-facing materials.
Usage
Usage note: Capitalize all letters. Spell out on first use in documents for general audiences.
In Context
- "The PKU test results showed elevated phenylalanine levels requiring immediate dietary consultation." — Laboratory report
- "Newborn screening programs typically include PKU as part of the core panel of conditions tested." — Public health policy document
Also known as
phenylketonuria
Don't confuse with
PK
PKD