What body parts does galactosemia affect?

Galactosemia means too much galactose builds up in the blood. This accumulation of galactose can cause serious complications such as an enlarged liver, kidney failure, cataracts in the eyes or brain damage.

What is galactosemia and what are its effects on humans?

Listen. Galactosemia, which means “galactose in the blood,” refers to a group of inherited disorders that impair the body’s ability to process and produce energy from a sugar called galactose. When people with galactosemia injest foods or liquids containing galactose, undigested sugars build up in the blood.

What is the treatment for galactosemia?

How is galactosemia treated? The only treatment for galactosemia is avoiding foods that contain lactose and galactose. A physician and a dietitian who specializes in metabolic disorders can tell you what modified dietary plan your child will need to follow.

What effect does galactosemia have on the body?

Galactosemia affects the body by preventing it from breaking down galactose, a simple sugar found in lactose. If a person continues to ingest galactose, they will experience a toxic build-up that can cause cataracts and brain, liver, or kidney damage. Untreated galactosemia can also cause a person’s white blood cells to stop working properly, leaving them susceptible to serious infections.

How are you diagnosed with galactosemia?

Galactosemia is usually diagnosed though tests that are done as part of newborn screening programs. A blood test will detect high levels of galactose and low levels of enzyme activity. The blood is usually taken by pricking a baby’s heel. A urine test may also be used to diagnose this condition.

What is the difference between glucose and galactose?

The main difference between glucose and galactose is the chemical structure; the position of each –OH group present in both molecules. This difference occurs in the 4 th carbon atom . The following image shows this in detail.

Is galactosemia be cured?

Galactosemia is a disease that cannot be cured. The disease can only be managed in order to help prevent complications of the condition. The only way to manage galactosemia is to eliminate lactose and galactose from the diet completely.