Glucose-6-Phosphate Dehydrogenase

Also known as: G6PD

Clinical Use

Use

The Glucose-6-Phosphate Dehydrogenase test is a preferred initial screening for G6PD deficiency. It is essential in diagnosing hemolytic anemia and is particularly significant for patients with certain ethnic backgrounds, such as individuals of African descent, or others at high-risk for G6PD deficiency. The enzyme's activity assessment is crucial for identifying G6PD deficient individuals, which is vital for preventing drug-induced hemolysis and other complications.

Special Instructions

Not provided.

Limitations

Cutoffs and results for G6PD activity provided by this assay cannot be used interchangeably with other assays due to specific configurations. Males with activity less than 30% and females with activity less than 30% are considered deficient, while females with 80% or more are normal. Intermediate results are for activities between 30%-80% for females. G6PD activity can be falsely normal post-transfusion.

Test Details

New York Approved

Methodology

Automated Analyzer (Clinical Chemistry)

Biomarkers

Glucose-6-Phosphate Dehydrogenase

Analyte

G6PD Activity

Concentration / Level • Quantitative (Continuous) (e.g., copies/mL, % expression)

LOINC Codes

Order Codes

32546-4 - G6PD RBC-cCnt

Result Turnaround Time

1-3 days

Specimen

Whole Blood

Volume

3 mL

Minimum Volume

1.5 mL

Container

Yellow (ACD solution A). Also acceptable: Green (sodium or lithium heparin), lavender (K2EDTA or K3EDTA), or pink (K2EDTA).

Collection Instructions

Enzyme most stable in acid citrate dextrose (ACD). Do not freeze. ACD collection tubes should be filled to maximum collectible volume and are not recommended for pediatric specimen collection or preservation.