A RARE CAUSE OF NEONATAL JAUNDICE AND WEIGHT LOSS

Background: Weight loss and jaundice in early neonatal period are common reasons for referral of new-born to paediatricians. The cause most of the time is related to inadequate fluid and calorie intake. Rare causes should be sought for in the presence of unusual clinical picture or when there is no response to initial usual management.

Case Presentation: We report a case of a new-born with classic galactosaemia who presented in unusual manner with only weight loss and jaundice without feeding problems. The final diagnosis of galactosaemia was unclear initially and only became evident following exclusion of more common differentials.

Results: Rapid recovery of early symptoms following commencement of appropriate treatment.

Conclusion: Future advancement of galactosaemia management could help to avoid long term complications which current management does not prevent.