Proton MR spectroscopy and imaging of a galactosemic patient before and after dietary treatment

AJNR Am J Neuroradiol. 2006 Jan;27(1):204-7.

Abstract

We describe how proton MR spectroscopy ((1)H-MR spectroscopy) was useful in elucidating the diagnosis of galactosemia in an undiagnosed 6-month-old infant. In vivo (1)H-MR spectroscopy of the brain showed a doublet at 3.7 parts per million, which was identified as galactitol (Gal-ol) by in vitro (1)H-MR spectroscopy of the urine. Galactosemia was subsequently confirmed by laboratory tests and treatment was initiated. A follow-up brain MR imaging and (1)H-MR spectroscopy study revealed resolution of white matter lesions and disappearance of Gal-ol peaks.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Brain / pathology
  • Brain Chemistry*
  • Female
  • Galactitol / analysis*
  • Galactitol / urine
  • Galactosemias / diagnosis*
  • Galactosemias / diet therapy
  • Humans
  • Infant
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging
  • Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy*

Substances

  • Galactitol