Classical Galactosemia Among Indian Children: Presentation and Outcome from a Pediatric Gastroenterology Center

Indian Pediatr. 2016 Jan;53(1):27-31. doi: 10.1007/s13312-016-0784-5.

Abstract

Objective: To analyze the presentation and predictors of outcome of children with galactosemia.

Methods: Analysis of clinical, laboratory, microbiological profile and outcome of patients fulfilling the diagnostic criteria: i) clinical setting; ii) reduced erythrocyte Gal-1-PUT enzyme activity; and iii) unequivocal response to lactose-free diet.

Results: 24 patients; median age of symptom onset and diagnosis: 10 (3-75) d and 55 (15-455) days, respectively. 71% had uncorrectable coagulopathy; 71% systemic infections; and 54% had ascites.

Conclusion: Despite delayed referral, high Pediatric end-stage liver disease scores and systemic infections, long-term outcome in galactosemia is rewarding. A subset of children have developmental delay.

MeSH terms

  • Female
  • Galactosemias* / diagnosis
  • Galactosemias* / epidemiology
  • Galactosemias* / therapy
  • Humans
  • India
  • Infant
  • Infant, Newborn
  • Infant, Newborn, Diseases* / diagnosis
  • Infant, Newborn, Diseases* / epidemiology
  • Infant, Newborn, Diseases* / therapy
  • Male
  • Referral and Consultation
  • Retrospective Studies
  • Treatment Outcome