What does G6PDD mean in MEDICAL

Glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency (G6PDD) is an inherited condition where the body lacks the enzyme glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase. This enzyme helps break down sugar from food and convert it into energy. When this enzyme is deficient, it can lead to a buildup of certain molecules that can damage red blood cells and cause numerous symptoms.

G6PDD mainly affects males and is most common in people of African, Mediterranean, South East Asian and Middle Eastern descent. However, anyone can be born with G6PDD if there's a family history of the disorder or one parent carries the gene variant linked with the disorder.

Common symptoms of G6PDD include fatigue, yellow skin discoloration called jaundice and sometimes dark urine due to hemolytic anemia caused by broken red blood cells. Some other symptoms include pale skin color, rapid heart rate and shortness of breath due to low iron levels in blood due to destroyed red blood cells.

A diagnosis for G6PDD can be done through a simple blood test that looks for reduced levels of glucose- 6 phosphate dehydrogenase enzyme activity as well as detection of hemoglobin variants associated with this disorder. Your doctor may also conduct genetic testing if he or she suspects you might have the disorder based on your family history or certain clinical signs or symptoms.

Treatment for this disorder typically focuses on avoiding triggers such as certain medications, foods and environmental elements that can worsen its symptoms while managing any existing pain or discomfort associated with them through lifestyle modifications like diet control and restful sleep habits. If there are any serious complications arises from this disease, such as severe anemia or infection, then additional treatments such as antibiotics or intravenous fluids may be needed for management.