G6PD (Glucose-6-Phosphate Dehydrogenase)

G6PD deficiency is an inherited condition. It is when the body doesn’t have enough of an enzyme called G6PD (glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase). This enzyme helps red blood cells work properly. A lack of this enzyme can cause hemolytic anemia. This is when the red blood cells break down faster than they are made.

G6PD can cause hemolytic anemia. This is when the red blood cells break down faster than they are made. Symptoms of hemolytic anemia include:

• Pale skin
• Yellowing of the skin, eyes, and mouth (jaundice)
• Dark-colored urine
• Fever
• Weakness
• Dizziness
• Confusion
• Trouble with physical activity
• Enlarged spleen and liver
• Increased heart rate
• Heart murmur

G6PD deficiency is inherited. This means it is passed down from parents through their genes.

Women who carry one copy of the gene can pass G6PD deficiency to their children.

• Men who get the gene have G6PD deficiency.
• Women who get the gene are carriers. They often don’t have symptoms. But they can pass the gene onto their children