Phenylketonuria (PKU) Test

PKU (Phenylketonuria) Screening

How It Is Done

Your baby's heel is cleaned with alcohol and then the heel is poked with a small needle. Several drops of blood are collected inside circles on a special piece of paper. When enough blood has been collected, a small bandage is put on the site.

For a urine test, a drop of special fluid or a special test strip is put on a diaper with fresh urine.

Go to previous section	Go to top of page	Go to next section
Author:	Debby Golonka, MPH	Last Updated: February 27, 2008
Medical Review:	Michael J. Sexton, MD - Pediatrics Thomas Emmett Francoeur, MDCM, CSPQ, FRCPC - Pediatrics
© 1995-2008 Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated.This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.