G6PD (Glucose 6-Phosphate Dehydrogenase)

G-6-PD is the most common enzyme deficiency in the world. Newborns with G-6-PD may have prolonged and more pronounced neonatal jaundice than other newborns. Older individuals are subject to hemolytic anemia that can be induced by some foods, drugs, and infections.

Glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) is an enzyme which has a principal role in the cycle which used glucose to produce energy. It can be found in all cells that are metabolically active, including red blood cells. In addition to energy production, G6PD helps to protect cells from toxic by-products of cellular metabolism. A deficiency in this enzyme is the most common genetic enzyme disorder in the world, and it makes red blood cells more susceptible to breaking apart, decreasing the blood’s oxygen carrying capability. This test measures the amount of G6PD in the blood in order to diagnose deficiency, which can be life threatening if not diagnosed early.

This test is performed in following conditions such as:

• Fatigue, weakness
• Pale skin
• Fainting
• Shortness of breath
• A rapid heart rate
• Jaundice
• Red or brown urine
• Enlarged spleen