Know About G6PD
G6PD deficiency (Glucose-6-Phosphate Dehydrogenase Deficiency) is one of the most common human genetic enzymopathies.
Glucose-6-Phosphate Dehydrogenase (G6PD) is an enzyme which protects the red blood cells and prevents them from being damaged.
This enzyme deficiency may provoke the sudden destruction of red blood cells and lead to hemolytic anemia with jaundice following the intake of fava beans, certain legumes and various drugs
400M
Worldwide
~5%
Of Boys in
Hong Kong
143
Low to high risk
drugs list
What is G6PD Deficiency?
G6PD deficiency is an inherited condition. It is when the body doesn't have enough of an enzyme called G6PD (glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase). This enzyme helps red blood cells work properly. A lack of this enzyme can cause hemolytic anemia. This is when the red blood cells break down faster than they are made.
What are the symptoms associated with G6PD deficiency?
People with G6PD deficiency are generally asymptomatic unless they are exposed to oxidant stress such as infection, certain drugs or broad beans. When there is massive damage of red blood cells causing excessive accumulation of bilirubin that overloads the liver, severe jaundice and even hemolytic crisis may occur. The symptoms of the patient depends on the severity of G6PD enzyme deficiency and the magnitude of the oxidant stress.
