Inborn Errors of Metabolism · USMLE Step 1

A newborn screening picks up elevated phenylalanine levels. Which enzyme deficiency is most consistent with this finding?

  1. Tyrosine hydroxylase
  2. Phenylalanine hydroxylase
  3. Homogentisate oxidase
  4. Branched-chain α-ketoacid dehydrogenase
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Correct answer: Phenylalanine hydroxylase

A deficiency of phenylalanine hydroxylase prevents conversion of phenylalanine → tyrosine, leading to accumulation of phenylalanine characteristic of (PKU).

Difficulty: Medium Question 1 of 19

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