G6PD Deficiency Features - 4
Function of glutathione:
In
the presence of glutathione peroxidase it converts H2O2 to H2O
Result of
G6PD deficiency:
NADPH
is not produced or is at low levels
Reduced
glutathione is not produced or at low levels
H2O2 levels increase (accelerated with oxidative
drugs)
Hemoglobin
is denatured and precipitates forming Heinz bodies
Heinz
body containing red cells have bites taken out by macrophages
resulting in “bite cells”.
Heinz
body containing red cells have shortened survival time
resulting in anemia.
K+ and Na+ leak
rates increase also