G6PD Deficiency - Glucose-6-Phosphate-Dehydrogenase Deficiency

What are the treatments for the disease?

Most people with G6PD deficiency do not need regular treatment. The genetic defect cannot be cured. If a hemolytic crisis occurs, a person usually needs short-term treatment. If a medication caused the attack, the person should stop taking that medication right away.

Other treatment is directed at the person's needs. This may include oxygen, fluids, or medications to treat problems such as congestive heart failure or chronic renal failure. Blood transfusions may be needed in some cases.

Some people may need surgery to have their spleen taken out if it gets too big. A treatment called iron chelation therapy may be needed if iron overload occurs. This therapy helps the body get rid of excess iron. These treatments help with complications of G6PD deficiency, but they do not fix or cure the disease.

What are the side effects of the treatments?

Blood transfusions may cause allergic reactions or infections. Having many transfusions can lead to infections. It may also lead to hemochromatosis, a condition in which there is too much iron in the body. Surgery carries a risk of bleeding, infection, or allergic reaction to the anesthesia. Iron chelation therapy may cause allergic reactions and stomach upset.

What happens after treatment for the disease?

Most affected people in the US have mild forms of G6PD deficiency. These people often need no treatment other than to avoid certain medications. When they become ill, closer monitoring or treatment may be needed. Those with severe forms of G6PD deficiency often need close monitoring and treatment for life.

How is the disease monitored?

G6PD deficiency is monitored with blood tests, such as CBC and CHEM-7 tests. These can detect anemia or blood cell death and response to therapy. The disease does not generally get worse or improve with age. Any new or worsening symptoms should be reported to the healthcare provider.