Definitions for "Galactosemia"
(guh-LAK-toh- SEE-mee-uh) Buildup of galactose in the blood. Caused by lack of one of the enzymes needed to break down galactose into glucose.
a condition where the body is not able to process galactose (a sugar), which makes up half of the sugar (called lactose) found in milk. When galactose levels become high, body organs and the central nervous system can be damaged. In newborns, the condition is found when first breastfeeding and can cause jaundice and other problems.
an inherited (autosomal recessive) metabolic disorder, marked by the deficiency of the enzyme involved in the metabolism of the carbohydrate galactose; accumulation of galactose 1-phosphate can lead to hepatosplenomegaly with cirrhosis, cataracts, and mental retardation; treatment includes elimination of foods containing galactose (primarily milk and milk products)