Glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency Treatment

How is treatment for G6PD deficiency
Treating the symptoms associated with G6PD deficiency is usually as simple as removing the trigger. That is treating the illness or infection or stopping the use of a certain drug.

Infants with G6PD deficiency may be at increased risk for pathological newborn jaundice and may warrant close monitoring for associated complications during the newborn period. Otherwise, treatment of G6PD deficiency is avoidance. For the infant, this means avoidance of several medications routinely prescribed for infections and illness. Strict attention to the ingredients of prepared foods and restaurant meals is required as fava beans are a frequent addition to prepared foodstuffs. Patients should not be exposed to moth balls containing naphthalene. The adverse affects of infection on patients with G6PD Deficiency can be acute and life threatening. Over exertion from exercise and work leading to dehydration and hypoglycemia can precipitate clinical symptoms.

In the acute phase of hemolysis, treatment include:

• Blood transfusions may be needed
• Dialysis may be required in acute renal failure

In the chronic phase of haemolysis or stable disease, treatment include:

• Splenectomy may help
• Supplementation with folic acid
• avoidance of certain medications, foods, and environmental exposures
• Avoid naphthalene - found in moth balls

How is prevention for G6PD deficiency
Most episodes of hemolytic anemia can be prevented by avoiding fava beans, oxidant drugs, and oxidant chemicals. It is especially important to screen newborns who are likely to have G6PD deficiency to ensure that G6PD-deficient babies won't be subjected to any of the triggers of hemolytic anemia. Pregnant women, especially in areas where G6PD deficiency is prevalent, should avoid eating fava beans.