P74: Other transitory neonatal electrolyte and metabolic disturbances

P74.5: Transitory tyrosinaemia of newborn

Tyrosine is an amino acid. The body needs amino acids to produce proteins. In the body, certain proteins ensure that processes run better or more quickly. These proteins are also known as enzymes.

A particular enzyme is responsible for the tyrosine level temporarily being too high. In newborn babies, particularly premature ones, this enzyme does not yet work correctly. Existing tyrosine can then not be broken down properly, and it accumulates.

When the tyrosine level in the child’s blood is too high, there may be different indications. The child may be a little more lethargic than usual. It might have a sucking weakness. There may also be no external indications at all, however.