The child must assume responsibility for his diet and restrict lactose and milk products as he grows older. Even though further testing may reveal normal results, each initially abnormal filter paper test result must be followed up immediately before damage occurs in the infant. The submitting physician is notified of abnormal test results by telephone, and advised of the diagnostic centers where more specific enzyme evaluations and genetic counseling are available. The physician is then requested to begin treatment with a lactose-free diet after collecting another newborn screen. If symptomatic, a blood specimen should also be collected as soon as possible for more definitive diagnosis by enzyme assay.
Nutritional services are important in the treatment of galactosemia.
Under the direction of the child's physician, nutritional services are available at diagnostic centers.