Children with metabolic disorders such as phenylketonuria (PKU), maple syrup urine disease (MSUD), and related disorders share one key similarity – the need to be on a specialized diet. However, additional symptoms associated with metabolic disorders may vary greatly even among members of the same family. Some individuals with a metabolic disorder have serious complications including mental retardation, seizures, or learning disabilities.

The great variability in metabolic disorder severity occurs because of specific genetic mutations, residual enzyme activity, and delays in the diagnosis and treatment of a metabolic disorder. Symptoms can include learning disabilities, seizures, mental retardation and behavioral issues.

For school-age children such symptoms further complicate the school environment, which must adapt to handle their special dietary needs. Three federal laws exist that attempt to help children with disabilities and children with metabolic disorders may qualify for assistance under one of these programs. The laws are:
• The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) of 1990 – The ADA prohibits discrimination on the

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