G6PD Test: Symptoms, Causes, Treatment & Normal range

A G6PD full form is glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD). G6PD is a blood test used to check G6PD levels in the blood. It is a protein that supports red blood cell function and protects them from oxidative damage. If you have low G6PD, you have a high chance of developing hemolytic anemia, which occurs when your body destroys red blood cells faster than it makes them. 

G6PD deficiency is a genetic condition that is more common in certain ethnic groups, including people of African, Mediterranean, or Southeast Asian descent. Early detection through a G6PD test helps in managing symptoms and preventing complications.

When people who have inherited this condition are exposed to triggers such as stress, infection, certain drugs, or other substances, the structure of the outer layer of their red blood cells significantly changes. 

Hemolytic anemia develops when the (RBC) body destroys red blood cells faster than it produces new ones, reducing oxygen flow to the organs and tissues. This can cause fatigue, yellowing of the skin and eyes, and shortness of breath.

Most people with G6PD deficiency don't notice any symptoms. However, some may develop symptoms when exposed to certain foods, medications, or infections that trigger the early trashing of red blood cells. Once the potential cause is treated, the symptoms of G6PD deficiency disappear within a few weeks.

This article will explain G6PD, its symptoms, causes, treatment, and more. 

When Would a G6PD Test Be Needed?

The G6PD test may be recommended in the following scenarios:

1. Hemolytic Anemia- If a patient presents with symptoms of anemia, such as fatigue, pale skin, rapid heartbeat, bacterial infections, or shortness of breath, a G6PD test may help determine the underlying cause.
2. Hemolytic Episodes—Individuals with G6PD deficiency might experience hemolysis after exposure to certain medications, infections, or foods (like fava beans). Testing helps confirm the diagnosis.
3. Newborn Screening- Many countries include the G6PD test as part of routine newborn screening to identify the condition early.
4. Family History- Testing is often advised if there is a known family history of G6PD deficiency.

Why Might a Baby Need a G6PD Test?

G6PD deficiency is a common cause of jaundice in newborns. If a baby has prolonged or severe jaundice, this test can help identify the cause. Jaundice is common in newborns, but if it lasts longer than two weeks and has no obvious reason, your healthcare provider may recommend a G6PD test. Your baby may also get a G6PD test if you have a family history of G6PD deficiency.

Purpose of the G6PD Test

The primary purposes of the G6PD test include:

• The test helps to diagnose the G6PD deficiency.
• Screen newborns for early signs of G6PD deficiency.
• Early diagnosis allows people to avoid triggers like specific drugs, foods, or infections.
• For people with G6PD deficiency, certain medications like antimalarials or antibiotics can cause hemolysis.
• In newborns, the test helps to identify G6PD deficiency caused due to jaundice.

What are the symptoms of G6PD deficiency?

Symptoms of G6PD deficiency may include-

• Rapid heartbeat
• Shortness of breath
• Fatigue
• Dizziness
• Paleness
• Jaundice, or yellowing of the skin and white eyes
• Fever
• Urine that is dark or yellow-orange

What causes G6PD Deficiency?

G6PD deficiency is a genetic condition that can be passed from parent to child. The defective gene responsible for this deficiency is located on the X chromosome, one of the two sex chromosomes. Men have only one X chromosome, while women possess two. Having just one altered gene copy is sufficient to cause G6PD deficiency.

Bacterial or viral infections can increase oxidative stress, exacerbating hemolysis. Consuming fava beans (Favism) or other legumes high in oxidative compounds can trigger hemolysis, which leads to oxidative stress that strains your red blood cells and may develop hemolytic anemia.

What are the risk factors for G6PD Deficiency?

Some people are at higher risk of G6PD deficiency-

• Males
• African-American people
• Have a family history

Having one or more risk factors doesn't necessarily mean having a G6PD deficiency. If you recommend the G6PD test, consult your doctor and take it with Redcliffe Labs.

Preparation Required for the G6PD Test

No such special preparation is required before the G6PD test. However, here are a few tips to ensure a smooth experience:

• Fasting- You are not required to fast before the G6Pd test. 
• Inform the Doctor- Tell the healthcare provider about any medications the patient takes.

G6PD Test Procedure for the Test

The procedure of the G6PD test is simple.

• The healthcare professional will clean the arm site and collect the blood sample with a sterile needle.
• He will collect the blood into a vial or tube. 
• He will label the sample and send it to the lab for analysis. 
• The process usually takes a few minutes.

The G6PD test results will be available within 48 hours of sample collection. 

Are There Any Risks of the G6PD Test?

The G6PD test is safe and has minimal risks. Potential side effects include:

• Slight pain or bruising 
• Risk of infection
• Excessive bleeding
• Hemoetoma

What Do the G6PD Test Results Mean?

The G6PD Test results will be available within 2 days of sample collection. The G6PD Test result interpretation is as follows:

• Normal Levels- A normal test means you have enough enzymes and don't have G6PD deficiency. The G6PD Test normal range is 5.5 to 20.5 units/grams of hemoglobin for adults.
• Moderate Deficiency—Your body has 10% to 60% of the normal range of G6PD enzymes in your blood. Someone with moderate deficiency might have hemolytic anemia that comes and goes. 
• Severe Deficiency- A severe deficiency of G6PD indicates that you have less than 10% of the normal range of G6PD enzymes in your blood. Severe deficiency means you have hemolytic anemia. 

Consult your test results with your doctors. Based on your condition, they might recommend additional tests or medications.

Why Might You Need the G6PD Test?

The G6PD test is necessary for:

1. Identifying Risks- To prevent complications from certain medications, foods, or infections.
2. Managing Symptoms- If you have a history of unexplained anemia or hemolytic episodes.
3. Newborn Health- To detect conditions causing neonatal jaundice.
4. Preventative Care- For individuals with a family history of G6PD deficiency.

Treatment for G6PD Deficiency

The following measures can manage the G6PD Deficiency- 

• Avoid Triggers- Avoid certain things that may trigger your symptoms. This may include certain medications like sulfa drugs and aspirin. Foods such as fava beans. Also, take care of yourself and avoid the risk of certain infections that can induce oxidative stress. 
• Supportive Care—During hemolytic anemia, the doctor may recommend treatment such as oxygen therapy or blood transfusions.
• Regular Monitoring- Routine health checkups to monitor red blood cell levels and overall health.

Final Thoughts

The G6PD test helps identify G6PD deficiency. Although the condition is not curable, it is manageable with proper care. You can take care of yourself by recognizing the triggers that increase the risk of hemolytic anemia and taking measures to avoid them.

Early detection is key to preventing complications and maintaining a good quality of life. If you or your baby have symptoms or a family history suggestive of G6PD deficiency, consult your healthcare provider about the G6PD test. You can also book your G6PD test online and get accurate results on time.

FAQ

What is a G6PD blood test for?

A G6PD blood test measures the amount of glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) in your blood

What if G6PD is high?

High levels of glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) can indicate a milder form of G6PD deficiency or the presence of young red blood cells. People with G6PD deficiency may experience mild hemolytic anemia when they are sick, pregnant, or taking certain medications. 

Can you live a normal life with G6PD?

Yes, most people with G6PD deficiency can live completely normal lives as long as they avoid triggers such as certain foods and medications. The condition is manageable by avoiding triggers that allow for a normal lifestyle.