Galactokinase deficiency: a treatable cause of bilateral cataracts

Abstract

Congenital cataract can be caused by several systemic diseases and differential diagnosis should be done between infections, genetic or metabolic diseases. We present a case of a 12-month-old girl with bilateral nuclear cataracts that was referred for investigation. Since she did not present a family history of congenital cataracts or metabolic diseases, and her physical examination was normal, a systemic evaluation was performed. Biochemical studies disclosed abnormal galactose metabolism signs. The diagnosis of galactokinase (GALK1) deficiency was considered and the study of the GALK1 gene allowed identifying a pathogenic genetic variant and a predictably pathogenic missense mutation, previously not described. Dietary measures were imposed with a good evolution.

Keywords: congenital disorders; diet; ophthalmology.