A rare, inherited condition in which the body is unable to convert the sugar galactose into glucose due to the absence of a liver enzyme. It causes no symptoms at birth, but jaundice, diarrhoea, and vomiting soon develop and the baby fails to gain weight. Untreated, the condition results in liver disease, cataract, and learning difficulties. The diagnosis is confirmed by urine and blood tests. The major source of galactose is the milk sugar lactose. Lactosefree milk must be used throughout life.
Galactosaemia |
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