A galactosemia test is a blood test The drug is given to newborns to test for a rare genetic condition called galactosemia In this condition, the body cannot process a simple sugar called galactose. Galactose is found in many foods and all dairy products. This includes breast milk and milk-based infant formula.
Certain enzymes usually break down galactose. Galactosemia occurs when genetic changes affect the function of these enzymes. of galactosemia Field types depend on which enzymes are affected.
- Galt (galactose-1-phosphate uridyltransferase) deficiency. This is still known as the classic galactosemia Field This is a more common and lethargic condition.
- Galk (galactose kinase) deficiency.
- Sturm (galactose epimerase) deficiency.
When a baby with Galt, Galk, or Sturm deficiency eats a diet containing galactose, sugar levels rise in the blood. This can cause serious health problems. These include liver disease, kidney failure, brain damage, and even death. However, with early diagnosis and treatment, babies with this disease can survive galactosemia lead a healthy life.
Other names: galactosemia newborn screening test , GALT test
What is it used for?
A galactosemia test It is used to diagnose galactosemia in children. It can also help determine if there is a Galt, Galk, or Gale deficiency.
Why should my baby have to do this? a galactosemia test ?
Newborns in the U.S. must undergo this test as part of newborn screening. Newborn screening is a routine blood test test They are tested for all kinds of important diseases.
Older babies who are admitted from other states and have symptoms of diabetes may need to be tested of galactosemia . These include:
- Vomiting and diarrhea.
- Low weight gain.
- Refusal to eat
- Irritability.
- Jaundice, a yellowing of the skin and eyes
What happens during a galactosemia test ?
The health care provider wipes the baby’s heel with alcohol and wipes the heel with a small needle. The health care provider will draw a few drops of blood and bandage the area.
Several arrangements must be made in preparation for this. test ?
No special preparation is required. a galactosemia test .
Are there any risks associated with this? test ?
The heel may prickle and the baby may feel acceleration or develop a small bruise in the area. This must be rejected immediately.
What do the results mean?
The infant’s result will be positive or negative. for galactosemia If the result is negative, the baby is not ill. If the result is positive, the baby may need further testing to prove the diagnosis. Other blood tests may well be involved. tests , urine tests , and genetic tests .
Is there anything else that should be noble? a galactosemia test ?
There is no cure for galactosemia Outdoor babies with established conditions may consume a soy diet or another lactose-free food. Babies with classic galactosemia (GALT) should be protected with a special diet that avoids all milk and milk-containing products. Babies with bile and gallbladder deficiencies have a good chance of including a limited number of dairy products on the menu.
If your baby has one of these abnormalities, talk to your baby’s care provider about how to put together a safe and healthy table, both in the baby’s day and as the baby grows. Children with these deviations may have to follow a special diet for the rest of their lives.
Made available by MedlinePlus at the State Medical Library. < Span> Outdoor babies with established conditions may consume a soy diet or another lactose-free food. Babies with classic