G6PD Test - Qualitative Blood

G6pd test is done in patients suspected to be G6PD deficient. Patients include cases of  neonatal hyperbilirubinemia, acute hemolysis, and chronic hemolysis. The usual triggers for hemolysis include :

• Bacterial infections
• Certain medications like antibiotics and NSAIDs.
• In babies with unresolving jaundice. 

The glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) test is done for the following reasons:

• It helps to find out if you have G6PD deficiency and treat it before it gets worse.
• For finding the underlying cause of persistent jaundice in infants or babies suffering from it for more than two weeks without any obvious cause.
• To confirm the presence of haemolytic anaemia in adults experiencing symptoms like
  1. Increased spleen size.
  2. Weakness.
  3. Dizziness.
  4. Jaundice.
  5. Light skin.
  6. Higher heart rate.
  7. Dark-coloured urine.
  8. Breathlessness.

Typically, the G6PD qualitative blood test is recommended for anyone with a family history of G6PD deficiency. However, it is also recommended for:

• Patients who are thought to be G6PD deficient.
• Patients with chronic haemolysis, acute haemolysis, and neonatal hyperbilirubinemia.
• People experiencing the following symptoms of haemolysis:
  1. Bacterial infections.
  2. Reactions to medications such as NSAIDs and antibiotics.
  3. Persistent jaundice, in infants.

The test is also suggested for people who show signs of haemolytic anaemia after being exposed to certain drugs, conditions, or foods, such as:

• Certain Antibiotics.
• Anti-Malarial Drugs.
• Bacterial Infections.
• Viral Infections.
• Fava Beans/Broad Beans (Favism).
• Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (Aspirin and Ibuprofen).

G6pd test detects presence G6PD enzyme as deficient or not deficient

The glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase qualitative test measures the amount of G6PD in the blood.

During G6pd test blood sample is taken from a vein in your arm, using a small needle. After the needle is inserted, a small amount of blood will be collected into a test tube or vial. You may feel a  little sting when the needle goes in or out. This usually takes less than five minutes.

G6PD deficient patients may suffer from hemolytic episodes and jaundice when exposed to a trigger; in absence of a trigger they are usually asymptomatic. G6PD not deficient results are considered normal. Result may come false not deficient in case a G6PD deficient person is tested during hemolytic episode.

Inquire with your medical professional if the test requires any particular preparation. Certain meals and medications may affect the outcomes of your tests.

Anaemia is a condition when the body doesn't produce enough healthy red blood cells to deliver oxygen to the tissues. Fatigue, pale skin, dizziness and shortness of breath, are some anaemia symptoms.

When RBCs get too old, a normal biological process called haemolysis takes place. RBCs start to lose specific characteristics and function less effectively as they get older. For instance, they might lose the ability to deform, which enables them to alter shape to flow through blood vessels.

A healthcare provider may suggest the following tests along with the G6PD qualitative test:

Complete Blood Count (CBC):

The complete blood count (CBC) is a panel of tests used to measure the different components of the blood, including red blood cells, white blood cells, platelets, haemoglobin, and hematocrit.

Serum Haemoglobin Test:

The serum haemoglobin test measures the concentration of haemoglobin in the blood. This test is useful for diagnosing anaemia because it can determine whether the condition is due to a decrease in red blood cells or haemoglobin.

Reticulocyte Count:

The reticulocyte count is a blood test that measures the quantity of immature red blood cells. It is used to aid in the diagnosis, monitoring, and evaluation of the efficacy of anaemia treatments.

• Glucose-6-Phosphate Dehydrogenase (G6PD) Deficiency Test.
• Glucose-6-Phosphate Dehydrogenase Test.
• G6PD Deficiency Test.
• G6PD Test.

The G6PD test is a blood test that measures the activity of the glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase enzyme in red blood cells to diagnose G6PD deficiency, an inherited condition that can cause hemolytic anemia.

Yes, many diagnostic centres in India offer home sample collection services, including Metropolis Healthcare, for the G6PD test, providing a convenient option for patients to get tested without visiting a lab.

The G6PD test is used to diagnose G6PD deficiency, especially before administering certain medications or in cases of suspected hemolytic anemia.

A normal result in the G6PD test indicates the presence of adequate G6PD enzyme activity, while an abnormal result suggests deficiency, which may require further testing to determine severity.

Anyone suspected of having G6PD deficiency, those with a family history of the condition, or individuals requiring certain treatments may be eligible for the G6PD test.

The G6PD test helps identify individuals at risk of developing hemolytic crises due to G6PD deficiency. This allows for the implementation of preventive measures, such as avoiding certain medications or triggers, and ensures timely treatment if hemolysis occurs, ultimately improving patient outcomes and quality of life.

The frequency of G6PD testing depends on individual circumstances. Typically, it is performed when symptoms arise or before initiating specific treatments.

There is no specific time requirement for the G6PD test. It can be done at any time as advised by your healthcare provider.

No, fasting is not required for the G6PD test.

Consult your doctor for any specific precautions based on your medical history.

The primary parameter included in the G6PD test is the activity of the G6PD enzyme in red blood cells.

The G6PD test involves drawing a blood sample from a vein in your arm, which is then analysed in a laboratory to measure G6PD enzyme activity.

The G6PD test should be done when:

• Symptoms of hemolytic anemia are present
• Before prescribing certain medications known to trigger hemolysis in G6PD-deficient individuals
• As part of newborn screening in high-risk populations
• If there is a family history of G6PD deficiency

The G6PD test becomes positive when the G6PD enzyme activity is found to be deficient or absent, indicating G6PD deficiency.

The blood sample collection for the G6PD test usually takes only a few minutes.

The turnaround time for G6PD test reports may vary depending on the diagnostic centre and the testing method used. Typically, the results are available within 24 hours of sample collection. It's best to check with your healthcare provider or the diagnostic centre for a more accurate estimate.