What You Need To Know about G6PD

What is G6PD?

G6PD stands for glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase, an enzyme that helps red blood cells work properly and is responsible for protecting your cells from chemical and environmental damage. It is also known as oxidative damage.

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What is G6PD test?

The G6PD test is a blood test that measures how much of this enzyme you have in your blood. If you have a low amount, you have a condition called G6PD deficiency. One has full defect when you have no G6PD enzyme, and partial defect when you have low amounts of the enzyme.

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Effects of G6PD deficiency

A lack of G6PD causes your red blood cells to break down faster than they are made, which is called hemolysis. When your body can’t make up for the quick loss, you can get?haemolytic anaemia.?Haemolytic?anaemia?can be dangerous because it causes a loss of oxygen to your organs and tissues.

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Who should get tested?

Everyone! You need to get tested to know your status. This is key, as some medications, food and chemicals may trigger your red blood cells to hemolyse and cause complications.

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Is it a one-time test?

Yes, it is. Test once and you don’t need to test again.

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Is the test safe for newborns?

Very safe. It is highly advised that all newborns are tested within the first few days of birth to ensure the right treatment.

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Is G6PD deficiency curable?

G6PD deficiency cannot be cured but it’s symptoms can be managed once you are aware of the deficiency and take care of yourself by knowing what food and medications to avoid.

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What are the test variations?

There is a qualitative test and a quantitative test. Below are the differences:

1.??? Clear differentiation: The qualitative G6PD cannot distinguish between those who are partial defect, having 50% normal G6PD activity from those who are full defect.

2.??? Purpose: Qualitative tests are primarily used to screen for the presence or absence of G6PD enzyme activity. Quantitative tests, on the other hand, provide a precise measurement of the enzyme activity level.

3.??? Sensitivity: Quantitative tests are generally more sensitive than qualitative tests. They can detect even small changes in enzyme activity, making them useful for monitoring G6PD deficiency progression or response to treatment.

4.??? Accuracy: Quantitative tests provide a numerical value for enzyme activity, allowing for a more accurate assessment of G6PD levels. This can be particularly important when determining the severity of G6PD deficiency.

5.??? Cost and Time: Although Qualitative tests are often less expensive, they require a long TAT no less than three hours. Quantitative tests, though more costly on the other hand, yield results at a faster rate, usually within a few minutes.

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Where do I get tested?

You can test for G6PD at any reputable laboratory.