G6PD Test

Description

G6PD Test

What is the G6PD Test?

Glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase is a full-form of G6PD. Alternatively, it is known as the G6PD screen and the RBC G6PD test. This deficiency is one of the most common human enzyme deficiency in the world. Since the ‘X’ chromosome carries the gene for the G6PD enzyme, this deficiency mostly affects males; females sometimes pass on this disease to their unborn child. The two major conditions associated with G6PD deficiency are hemolytic anaemia and neonatal jaundice, which may cause neurological complications. Screening and detection of G6PD deficiency help in reducing such complications.

Why G6PD test advised?

G6PD is an enzyme present in the blood and is essential for the proper functioning of body cells. This enzyme is a catalyst for the normal functioning of red blood cells. Naturally, a deficiency of this enzyme causes a breakdown of red blood cells that is a genetic condition.

In extreme cases of G6PD deficiency, hemolytic anaemia is the result wherein red blood cells get destroyed at an extremely rapid pace compared to the production of bone marrow. Consumption of certain medications like malarial medicines, sulfonamides for certain conditions, anti-inflammation medicines, can trigger deficiency of this enzyme and hence are advised to be avoided.

G6PD Symptoms

Symptoms like shortness of breath, dizziness, pale skin, dizziness, fatigue, symptoms of jaundice all show a deficiency of the G6PD enzyme. And chances of having hemolytic anaemia as well. The above symptoms may prompt the doctor to order a G6PD test. 

Deficiency of G6PD is seen in newborns who have jaundiced for a long period. These symptoms are not visible if the female is suffering from this deficiency. This G6PD test also helps in monitoring the success of ongoing treatments.

When G6PD test advised?

G6PD enzyme testing is primarily performed when an individual has signs and symptoms associated with hemolytic anaemia. G6PD test may be done when someone has had an episode of increased RBC destruction but after the crisis has resolved. Some signs and symptoms include;

• Fatigue, weakness
• Pale skin (pallor)
• Fainting
• Shortness of breath
• A rapid heart rate
• Jaundice
• Red or brown urine (from the presence of blood/haemoglobin)
• Enlarged spleen

G6PD test may also be done when other laboratory test results are consistent with hemolytic anaemia. These may show increased bilirubin concentrations (bilirubinemia), haemoglobin in the urine (hemoglobinuria), decreased RBC count and haptoglobin levels, increased reticulocyte count and lactate dehydrogenase levels, presence of bite cells on a blood smear, and sometimes the presence of Heinz bodies inside the RBCs on a specially stained blood smear.

G6PD testing is typically ordered when other causes of anaemia and jaundice have been ruled out and several weeks after an acute incident has been resolved.

If available, a G6PD test may be performed on a newborn on the first day or two after birth.

G6PD test procedure

The lab technician draws a small blood sample for testing deficiency of G6PD. The drawing of blood does not require over 5 minutes and is easily executed. Haemoglobin testing and a complete blood count test can be done with a G6PD test. 

8.8 – 13.4U/g HB is the normal value ranges of the G6PD test. Similarly, if results are not adhering to normal ranges, then that points towards G6PD deficiency.

G6PD test conditions

Note:

• Overnight fasting is not required. Talk to your doctor before booking the test.
• A doctor’s prescription may be required
• A previous medical history may be required
• Inform your doctor before the test and follow all of his/her advice. 

G6PD Blood Test

G6PD Test Also known as g6pd test, g6pd blood test, g6pd diagnostic test, g6pd DNA test, g6pd enzyme test, g6pd gene test,

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