Haem: G6PD Deficiency: Free MSRA Podcast

🎧 MSRA Podcast: G6PD Deficiency – Exam-Ready Essentials & Rapid Revision 🎧Crack G6PD Deficiency for the MSRA with this focused, high-yield revision episode. We slice through the noise and give you what matters—perfect for rapid review or your next commute.🧬 Definition:Glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency is the most common enzyme deficiency worldwide. It’s a genetic disorder (X-linked recessive) affecting red blood cells, making them prone to haemolysis under oxidative stress.🦠 Causes / Risk Factors:Mutation in the G6PD gene on the X chromosomeHighest prevalence in males, especially those of African, Mediterranean, or Asian descentCarriers (usually females) typically asymptomaticHigh global prevalence: ~400 million people⚡ Pathophysiology:G6PD helps make NADPH, which keeps glutathione activeGlutathione is the cell’s main antioxidant—deficiency leaves RBCs vulnerable to oxidative damageHaemolysis is usually triggered (not constant)⚠️ Common Triggers:Drugs: Antimalarials (primaquine), quinolones (ciprofloxacin, etc.), sulfa drugs, nitrofurantoin, dapsone, methylene blueInfections: Any severe infectionFoods: Fava beans (broad beans)Others: Diabetic ketoacidosis, acute kidney injury, mothballs (naphthalene)🩺 Clinical Features:Most are asymptomatic until exposed to a triggerAcute haemolytic episode:Fatigue, pallor, jaundice, dark (cola-coloured) urine, shortness of breathNeonatal jaundice can be the first signRecurrent episodes can cause gallstones, splenomegaly🔎 Diagnosis:G6PD enzyme activity assay (gold standard)FBC: Anaemia during crisis, raised reticulocyte countBlood film: "Bite cells", "blister cells", Heinz bodies (with special stain)Supporting labs: Raised unconjugated bilirubin, low haptoglobin, raised LDHDirect Coombs test negative (helps exclude autoimmune haemolysis)🛡️ Management:Avoid triggers: Patient education is crucialSupportive care: Hydration, blood transfusions in severe casesTreat infections promptlyFolic acid supplementation in chronic/recurrent casesRare: Splenectomy for very severe, chronic cases⏳ Prognosis:Excellent with avoidance of triggers and proper managementSerious risks: Acute kidney injury and severe anaemia if untreated, kernicterus in newborns with uncontrolled jaundiceChronic complications: Gallstones, splenomegaly🧠 Memory Aids:G6PDC:Gender (males), 6 (enzyme), Precipitated by triggers, Drug and Diet triggers, CrisesCompare with hereditary spherocytosis (HS):G6PD: Males, African/Mediterranean, triggered crises, Heinz bodiesHS: Both genders, Northern European, chronic + crises, spherocytes• 📖 Revision Notes:https://www.passthemsra.com/topic/g6pd-deficiency-revision-notes/• 🃏 Flashcards:https://www.passthemsra.com/topic/g6pd-deficiency-flashcards/• ❓ Accordion Q&A Notes:https://www.passthemsra.com/topic/g6pd-deficiency-accordion-qa-notes/• 🏆 Rapid Fire Quiz:https://www.passthemsra.com/topic/g6pd-deficiency-rapid-quiz/• 📝 Online Quiz:https://www.passthemsra.com/quizzes/g6pd-deficiency/#MSRA #G6PDDeficiency #Haematology #MSRARevision #MSRAQuiz #PassTheMSRAExam Pearl:Always check drug histories and ask about family background in any unexplained haemolysis, especially in males of African, Mediterranean, or Asian ancestry.🗝️ Key Learning Points🔗 G6PD Deficiency Revision Resources for the MSRA