Nephrolithiasis in a child with glucose-galactose malabsorption

Glucose-galactose malabsorption (GGM) is a rare autosomal recessive disorder of intestinal transport of glucose and galactose, leading to watery diarrhea, dehydration, failure to thrive, or early death. We report a female newborn with GGM, whose clinical diagnosis was confirmed by mutational analysis of the SGTL1 gene. Bilateral nephrolithiasis was discovered after an episode of hematuria. Metabolic causes of nephrolithiasis were not found. The most likely explanation for the development of nephrolithiasis is chronic diarrhea leading to dehydration and highly concentrated urine. High fluid intake and rigorous prevention of dehydration is therefore advised for these patients. Furthermore, life-long monitoring of their renal status, including regular ultrasound examinations, is warranted.