Description
Why It’s Done:
The test is usually done to:
• Diagnose G6PD deficiency, especially in individuals with a family history of the condition.
• Investigate unexplained hemolytic anemia (low red blood cell count due to destruction of red blood cells).
• Screen newborns or high-risk populations (e.g., males of African, Mediterranean, or Southeast Asian descent).
• Evaluate safety before prescribing medications that can trigger hemolysis in G6PD-deficient individuals (e.g., certain antibiotics, antimalarials, or sulfa drugs).
preparation:
• No special preparation is typically needed for the test.
• Inform your doctor about any recent infections, medications, or blood transfusions, as these can affect results.
• It’s best to avoid testing during an acute hemolytic episode, as reticulocytes (young red blood cells) may temporarily show normal enzyme activity, leading to false-negative results.
• A simple blood sample is taken from a vein, usually from the arm.
