About G6PD Deficiency
What is G6PD Deficiency?
Glucose 6 phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency is a hereditary condition *
It occurs when the body doesn’t have enough of the G6PD enzyme; this enzyme helps red blood cells work correctly
A lack of this enzyme can cause hemolytic anemia; this is when the red blood cells break down faster than they are made **
The symptoms of hemolytic anemia may look like other health problems. Always see your healthcare provider for a diagnosis
What are the Symptoms during Hemolytic Anemia?
Glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency is the most common enzyme deficiency in humans
This deficiency affects more than 400 million people worldwide
G6PD deficiency affects individuals of all races and ethnic
backgrounds
Quantitative screening is the best testing method to determine the presence and severity of G6PD deficiency
Prior to any kind of medical care treatment, it is important to inform the health provider that you are G6PD deficient****
Triggers that May Cause Hemolytic Anemia
Illness, such as bacterial and viral infections
Some painkillers and fever-lowering drugs
Some antibiotics (most often those with “sulf” in their names)
Some antimalarial drugs (most often those with “quine” in their names)
Fava beans and other legumes (also called broad beans)
Naphthalene (a chemical found in mothballs and moth crystals). Mothballs can be very harmful if a child swallows one ***
