G-6-PD Deficiency
For the past issues, we discussed hypothyroidism, congenital adrenal hyperplasia and galactosemia.
Today, we will talk on G-6-PD deficiency (glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase).
This group is the most common inborn error of metabolism. And with the availability of newborn screening which all babies born in the hospitals and health care facilities are required to undergo,
then early diagnosis is made.
In my own practice here in our Province for the past 20 years,
I have been dealing with many babies who are G-6-PD deficient.
Clinical manifestations appear to be mild. Absence of this red cell enzyme has led to hemolysis of red cells after exposure to some drugs, agents or conditions.