GALACTOSEMIA Meaning and
Definition
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Galactosemia is a rare genetic disorder that affects the body's ability to metabolize galactose, a sugar found in milk and other dairy products. It is caused by a deficiency or complete absence of an enzyme called galactose-1-phosphate uridylyltransferase (GALT), which is responsible for breaking down galactose into glucose, a sugar that the body can readily use for energy.
When an individual with galactosemia consumes lactose, a sugar made up of galactose and glucose, the galactose cannot be broken down properly. As a result, galactose builds up in the body, leading to various health problems. Symptoms of galactosemia typically appear within a few days to a few weeks after birth and may include feeding difficulties, jaundice, vomiting, diarrhea, liver damage, failure to thrive, and intellectual disabilities if left untreated.
The treatment for galactosemia involves a strict lactose-free diet, eliminating galactose-containing foods such as milk, cheese, and yogurt, as well as any products derived from these foods. With early diagnosis and appropriate management, individuals with galactosemia can lead relatively normal lives without experiencing severe complications.
If left untreated, galactosemia can lead to serious complications such as liver damage, cataracts, sepsis, cognitive impairments, and poor growth. Therefore, it is crucial for individuals with galactosemia to adhere to a lifelong dietary regimen to avoid complications and maintain optimal health. Regular monitoring by healthcare professionals specializing in metabolic disorders is also necessary to ensure successful management of galactosemia.
Common Misspellings for GALACTOSEMIA
Etymology of GALACTOSEMIA
The word "galactosemia" is derived from two Greek roots:
1. "Galacto" comes from the Greek word "γάλα" (gala), meaning "milk".
2. "Semia" is derived from the Greek word "σημαίνειν" (semainein), meaning "to signify" or "to indicate".
Therefore, "galactosemia" literally translates to "milk signifies" or "milk indicates" in Greek. This term is used to describe a rare genetic disorder where the body cannot properly metabolize galactose, a sugar found in milk and dairy products.
Similar spelling words for GALACTOSEMIA
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