What is the required action upon diagnosing an individual with phenylketonuria?

Upon diagnosing an individual with phenylketonuria (PKU), the required action primarily involves informing the patient about dietary changes. PKU is a genetic disorder that results in the inability to metabolize phenylalanine, an amino acid found in many protein-containing foods. As a result, individuals with PKU must adhere to a strict diet that limits phenylalanine intake to prevent serious neurological damage and other complications.

Dietary management is crucial and is typically one of the first steps after diagnosis. Patients need to understand the implications of their condition and how to manage it effectively through dietary restrictions, which usually includes avoiding high-protein foods and using specially formulated medical foods low in phenylalanine.

While notifying appropriate health agencies and scheduling regular follow-ups are important aspects of managing PKU, and referring to a specialist might be necessary for comprehensive care, these actions do not address the immediate dietary needs of the patient, which are critical for their health and well-being.