G6PD
From Health Facts
Latest Edit: Hector 2014-03-24 (EDT)
See Also | Lab Tests |
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G6PD refers to the Glucose-6-Phosphate-Dehydrogenase test that is used to identify G-6-PD deficiency in patients who have developed hemolysis upon taking certain oxidizing drugs.[1]
Discussion
- G-6-PD is an enzyme used in glucose metabolism
- A deficiency in this enzyme causes precipitation of hemoglobin and cellular membrane changes in red blood cells (RBCs), which may result in hemolysis.
- This disease is a genetic disorder which is a recessive trait carried on the X chromosome.
Patient Preparation
- No specific preparation is generally required, however, if symptoms are acute, it is advised to wait until the acute episode has resolved.
- This test is generally recommended as a screening test for anybody that is undergoing Intravenous Vitamin C therapy.
- Factors which can cause increased levels
- Drugs: Acetanilid, Antimalarials, Antipyretics, Ascorbic acid, Aspirin, Dapsone, Methylene blue, Nalidixic acid, Nitrofurantoin (Furadantin), Phenacetin, Phenazopyridine, Primaqurine, Quinidine, Sulfa, Sulfonamine, Thiazide diuretics, TOLBUTamide (Orinase), Vitamin K (water soluble)
- Factors which can cause decreased levels
- None noted
Clinical Implications
High levels indicate:
- Pernicious anemia
- Megaloblastic anemia
- Chronic blood loss
- Myocardial infarction (Heart Attack)
- Hepatic coma
- Hyperthyroidism
Low levels indicate:
- G-6-PD deficiency
- Hemolytic anemia
- Unusual nonspherocytic anemia
Associated Tests
- CBC, Blood smear, Reticulocyte Count, Bilirubin, Red Blood Cell Count (RBC), Hemoglobin, Autohemolysis Test, Heinz Body Stain
References
- ↑ Pagana Kathleen D, Pagana Timothy J (2006) Mosby's Manual of Diagnostic and Laboratory Tests