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G6PD deficiency in neonates: a prospective study
M Verma1, D Singla, S B Crowell
1Department of Pediatrics, Christian Medical College, Ludhiana, Punjab.
Insights
Glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency affects 3.9% of newborns, with higher rates in males. Screening neonates for G6PD deficiency is crucial for diagnosing jaundice and preventing hemolytic anemia.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Pediatrics
- Genetics
Background:
- Glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency is a common inherited condition.
- Neonatal jaundice is a frequent clinical concern in newborns.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the frequency of G6PD deficiency in a cohort of newborns.
- To investigate the association between G6PD deficiency and neonatal jaundice.
- To assess the utility of G6PD screening in neonates presenting with jaundice.
Main Methods:
- Screening of 1000 consecutively born babies for G6PD deficiency.
- Observation of neonates for seven days for jaundice development.
- Parental screening for G6PD deficiency in affected infants.
Main Results:
- The overall frequency of G6PD deficiency was 3.9% (5% in males, 2.8% in females).
- Religion did not significantly impact the deficiency frequency.
- Hyperbilirubinemia developed in 48.7% of neonates with G6PD deficiency.
- Maternal G6PD deficiency was common among infants with the condition.
Conclusions:
- Neonatal G6PD deficiency is prevalent and linked to hyperbilirubinemia.
- Screening for G6PD deficiency in jaundiced neonates is recommended.
- Early detection of G6PD deficiency aids in preventing hemolytic episodes.
Abstract:
One thousand consecutively born babies were screened for G6PD deficiency and observed for seven days for development of jaundice. Frequency of the deficiency was 3.9%, being 5% in males and 2.8% in females. Religion did not have any bearing on the frequency. Parental screening in cases of babies deficient in G6PD enzyme revealed deficiency of the enzyme in majority of the mothers. Hyperbilirubinemia developed in 48.7% of babies having G6PD deficiency : It is recommended that any neonate presenting with jaundice must be screened for G6PD deficiency not only to define the etiology of hyperbilirubinemia but also to prevent future hemolytic episodes.