WHICH OF THE FOLLOWING ARE CONTRAINDICATIONS FOR BREASTFEEDING TERM, HEALTHY INFANTS
- A. Maternal hepatitis C
- B. Maternal hepatitis B
- C. Infant cleft lip or palate
- D. Infant galactosemia ✓
Contraindications for breastfeeding term, healthy infants include certain medical conditions that may pose risks to the infant or the mother. One such condition is infant galactosemia, a rare genetic disorder that affects the body’s ability to process galactose, a sugar found in milk. Infants with galactosemia are unable to metabolize galactose properly, leading to serious health complications if they consume breast milk or formula containing lactose.
Breastfeeding is contraindicated for infants with galactosemia due to the inability of these infants to metabolize galactose effectively. Galactosemia is an autosomal recessive disorder caused by mutations in genes involved in galactose metabolism. When infants with galactosemia consume breast milk or formula containing lactose, it can lead to the accumulation of toxic byproducts in the body, resulting in symptoms such as liver damage, cataracts, developmental delays, and intellectual disabilities.
For infants diagnosed with galactosemia, it is crucial to avoid breastfeeding and lactose-containing formulas. Instead, these infants require specialized formulas that are free from lactose and galactose to ensure proper growth and development. Early detection and dietary management are essential in preventing complications associated with galactosemia and promoting optimal health outcomes for affected infants.
In summary, breastfeeding is contraindicated for healthy infants with galactosemia due to their inability to metabolize galactose effectively. Infants diagnosed with this rare genetic disorder require specialized formulas that do not contain lactose or galactose to prevent adverse health effects associated with the condition.
