Glucose-6-phosphate Dehydrogenase Deficiency (G6PDD )

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By: Francis Appiah, Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine (N.D. Candidate), with expertise in Medical Journalism, Medical Laboratory Science, Integrative/Complementary Health, CAM and Healthcare Management

Glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency (G6PD) is an inborn error of metabolism that predisposes to red blood cell breakdown. 

Most individuals with G6PD deficiency are asymptomatic thus those who are affected have no symptoms. Following a specific trigger, symptoms such as yellowish skin, Hemoglobinuria (red, dark or brown urine), shortness of breath, and feeling tired may develop. Complications can include anemia, acute kidney failure and newborn jaundice.

Most people who develop symptom of G6PD are male, due to the X-linked pattern of inheritance, but female carriers can be affected due to unfavorable lyonization. Carriers of the G6PDD allele may be partially protected against malaria.

It is an X-linked recessive disorder that results in defective glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase enzyme. Red blood cell breakdown can be triggered by foods such as (fava beans which is the hallmark trigger for G6PD mutation carriers), Certain medicines including aspirin, quinine and other antimalarials derived from quinine, Moth balls (naphthalene), Stress from a bacterial or viral infection. Depending on the specific mutation the severity of the condition may vary. 

Diagnosis is based on symptoms and supported by blood tests and genetic testing such as complete blood count and reticulocyte count, liver enzymes, coombs test or direct antiglobulin test, lactate dehydrogenase etc. 

Avoiding triggers is important. Treatment of acute episodes may include medications for infection, stopping the offending medication, or blood transfusions in the acute phase of hemolysis or even dialysis in acute kidney failure and also avoidance of the drugs and foods that cause hemolysis. Vaccination against some common pathogens (e.g. hepatitis A and hepatitis B) may prevent infection-induced attacks. Jaundice in newborns may be treated with bili lights. (A bili light is a light therapy tool to treat newborn jaundice, hyperbilirubinemia) It is recommended that people be tested for G6PDD before certain medications are taken such as primaquine and aspirin etc. 

Other alternative therapy for management and treatment of G6PD deficiency includes folic acid supplements, vitamin E, selenium. 

About the Author

Francis Appiah, N.D. Candidate

Nyarkotey University College of Holistic Medicine and Technology, Tema Community 7

Francis Appiah is a Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine candidate with expertise in medical laboratory technology, medical journalism, complementary/integrative medicine, and CAM healthcare management. He leverages this diverse background to deliver holistic care. With over eight years of experience in Ghana's healthcare sector, Francis excels in clinical diagnosis, integrative medicine, patient-centered care, analytical and diagnostic skills, problem-solving, and healthcare management.

His mission is to establish Franapp Holistic Medical Centre, providing comprehensive conventional and natural medicine services to all Ghanaians and bridging the gap between traditional and holistic healthcare for optimal wellness.

Disclaimer

The information provided in this article is for educational and general informational purposes only, focusing on Glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency (G6PD), its symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and management.

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