Glucose-6-Phosphate Dehydrogenase (G6PD) details
What Glucose-6-Phosphate Dehydrogenase (G6PD) shows
Glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) is an enzyme that protects red blood cells from oxidative damage. This test measures G6PD activity to check for G6PD deficiency, a common inherited condition (more prevalent in people of African, Mediterranean, Middle Eastern, and Southeast Asian descent) in which red blood cells are vulnerable to breaking down (hemolysis) when exposed to certain triggers — including specific medications, fava beans, and severe infections. Knowing you have G6PD deficiency is important mainly for avoiding these triggers, since exposure can cause a sudden, sometimes serious drop in red blood cell count.
Tests that include Glucose-6-Phosphate Dehydrogenase (G6PD)
This test measures the level of G6PD enzyme, helping to identify G6PD deficiency, the most common enzyme deficiency worldwide. It's particularly prevalent among individuals of African, Mediterranean, and Asian descent. G6PD deficiency, an X-linked genetic disorder, varies in severity and primarily affects males. Newborns may experience prolonged jaundice, while adults could face acute hemolytic anemia with symptoms like jaundice, fatigue, and dark urine. Certain illnesses, foods (like fava beans), and medications can trigger these episodes.
- Glucose-6-Phosphate Dehydrogenase (G6PD) Measures the activity of glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase, an enzyme that protects red blood cells. Deficiency can cause anemia triggered by certain foods, infections, or medications.
This test measures glucose 6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) to evaluate G6PD deficiency.
- Glucose-6-Phosphate Dehydrogenase (G6PD) Measures the activity of glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase, an enzyme that protects red blood cells. Deficiency can cause anemia triggered by certain foods, infections, or medications.
- Red Blood Cell Count (RBC) Red blood cell count — the number of oxygen-carrying red blood cells in your blood, used to help diagnose anemia or polycythemia.
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