Frequency of Glucose 6 Phosphate Dehydrogenase Deficiency in Neonatal Jaundice

Objective: To determine the frequency of Glucose 6 Phosphate Dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency in neonates presenting with jaundice. Material and Methods: This descriptive study was conducted at Special Care Baby Unit (SCBU) Department of Child Health, Khyber Teaching Hospital, Peshawar from January 2008 to June 2008. A total number of 283 newborns, aged 1-14 days of either sex admitted with jaundice were included in the study. Biodata and clinical profile of all patients were collected on preformed proforma. G6PD decolorization time, baby and mother blood group, haemoglogin, total bilirubin, retic count and other related investigations were done. Results: During the study time a total number of 710 newborns was admitted to Special Care Baby Unit. Out of the total special care baby unit admissions, 283(39.85%) neonates had jaundice. Among these 283 jaundiced newborn babies, 83 were G6PD deficient, male were 63 (75.9%) and female were 20 (24.1 %). All jaundiced neonates received phototherapy. Among G6PD deficient jaundiced babies 54(65.06%) neonates had severe hyperbilirubinemia and needed exchange transfusion. Nine babies (10.84%) developed kernicterus. G6PD discoloration time test at the time of admission varied from 60-120 minutes. Serum bilirubin level ranged from 9.5-40 mg/dl. Conclusion: G6PD deficiency is a relatively common cause of neonatal jaundice and is more frequent in male babies. Neonates suffering from G6PD deficiency present with early jaundice like other hemolytic causes of jaundice including ABO and Rh incompatibility.