Galactosaemia newborn screening test
Quick answer: This newborn test checks for galactosaemia, an inherited condition in which the body cannot break down galactose, a sugar in milk. It is part of newborn screening and is also done in babies with poor feeding, vomiting or jaundice.
- SampleBlood
- TakesAbout 5 minutes
- Before the testA few drops of blood are taken from the baby's heel; ask your doctor about timing.
How the test is done
- 1The baby's heel is warmed and cleaned
- 2A small prick is made on the side of the heel
- 3A few drops of blood are placed on a card or into a tube
- 4The sample is sent to the lab for testing
What your results can mean
Reading your report
A positive screen needs confirmation, so discuss it with your baby's doctor promptly.
If the result is outside the usual range
A positive or abnormal result can point to galactosaemia, and the baby usually needs urgent follow-up tests and a change in feeding on medical advice. A normal result makes the classic form unlikely.
Who usually has this test
Newborns as part of screening, and babies with poor feeding, vomiting, jaundice or poor weight gain after starting milk.
Risks and aftercare
The heel may have a small mark; cuddling or feeding the baby during the test can help comfort them.
Names and options
Also called: galactosemia test, GALT screen
Listed by the hospital as
- GALACTOSEMIA, NEONATAL SCREEN
Questions about this test
What is galactosaemia?
It is a rare inherited condition in which a baby cannot break down galactose, a sugar in breast milk and most formula. It can cause serious illness if not treated.
What happens if the screen is positive?
Your baby's doctor will arrange confirmation tests and may advise a special formula without galactose. Do not change feeding without medical advice.
Can a blood transfusion affect the result?
Yes. A transfusion can make the test look normal for a while, so tell the doctor if your baby has had one.
Related tests
Tamara Hospital & IVF Centre, Rajajinagar
34/3, 10th Cross Road, opp. Vardhaka Sardar Patel School, 1st N Block, 2nd Stage, Rajajinagar, Bengaluru 560010
The hospital is open 24 hours. Call before you come to check the timing for your scan or sample collection.
Get directions ↗IVF Pulse fertility care at Tamara Hospital →
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This page explains each test in general terms so you know what to expect. It is not medical advice: your doctor decides which tests you need and what your results mean. Reference ranges differ between laboratories. Updated 4 November 2026.