Galactosemia
Current as of: September 8, 2022
Author: Healthwise Staff
Medical Review:Adam Husney MD - Family Medicine & Kathleen Romito MD - Family Medicine & Martin J. Gabica MD - Family Medicine & Siobhan M. Dolan MD, MPH - Reproductive Genetics
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Galactosemia is a rare, inherited genetic condition caused by high levels of galactose in the blood. Galactose is a part of the sugar (lactose) found in dairy products. Galactosemia is caused by a deficiency in one of the three enzymes needed to break down galactose, so it builds to dangerous levels.
A child who has galactosemia appears normal at birth but develops symptoms after taking formula or breast milk. Symptoms of galactosemia include:
Without early diagnosis and treatment, a child with galactosemia can develop severe effects. The child may be slow to develop and may have vision problems (cataracts), liver problems, and intellectual disabilities. One form of the disease causes cataracts without intellectual disabilities or poor growth.
Galactosemia is treated with a special diet that does not contain galactose or lactose. A person who has galactosemia must always avoid milk and milk products.
Current as of: September 8, 2022
Author: Healthwise Staff
Medical Review:Adam Husney MD - Family Medicine & Kathleen Romito MD - Family Medicine & Martin J. Gabica MD - Family Medicine & Siobhan M. Dolan MD, MPH - Reproductive Genetics
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