G6PD

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Latest Edit: Hector 2014-03-24 (EDT)

See Also Lab Tests

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:

Low levels indicate:

Associated Tests

References

  1. Pagana Kathleen D, Pagana Timothy J (2006) Mosby's Manual of Diagnostic and Laboratory Tests