A 12-day-old male infant is brought to the emergency department by his parents due to excessive vomiting, poor feeding, and lethargy over the past two days. He was born at term without complications and has been exclusively breastfed since birth. Physical examination reveals scleral icterus, diffuse jaundice, and a palpable liver edge 3 cm below the right costal margin. Ophthalmologic examination is notable for bilateral cataracts. Laboratory testing demonstrates hypoglycemia and elevated liver transaminases. Which of the following is the most appropriate next step in the management of this patient's condition?
- Switch feeds to a soy-based infant formulaCevap
- BTransition to a phenylalanine-restricted diet
- CEliminate fruit juices and purees from the diet
- DInitiate frequent feedings with uncooked cornstarch
- EAdmit for intensive phototherapy and continue breastfeeding
Cevap
Switch feeds to a soy-based infant formula
This infant's presentation of jaundice, hepatomegaly, bilateral cataracts, and hypoglycemia following the ingestion of breast milk is highly characteristic of classic galactosemia. This autosomal recessive disorder is caused by a deficiency of the enzyme galactose-1-phosphate uridyltransferase (GALT). Breast milk and standard infant formulas contain lactose, a disaccharide that is broken down into glucose and galactose. The inability to further metabolize galactose leads to an accumulation of galactose-1-phosphate, which is toxic to the liver (causing jaundice, transaminitis, and hepatomegaly) and kidneys. Additionally, excess galactose is converted by aldose reductase into galactitol, which accumulates in the lenses of the eyes and causes cataracts. The most appropriate initial management is to immediately discontinue all lactose-containing feeds (including breast milk) and switch to a soy-based formula, which is lactose-free. Prompt dietary modification is crucial to prevent life-threatening complications, including Escherichia coli sepsis.
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Anahtar Kavram
Diagnosis and management of classic galactosemia