Question:
I understand a low G6PD reading would indicate deficiency - but what would be the reason behind a high G6PD?
Answer:
For some background, Glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) is an enzyme essential for the health of red blood cells. Levels can be measured in the blood to help rule out or gauge the severity of a genetic metabolic disorder called G6PD Deficiency. A decrease in the G6PD enzyme is associated with G6PD Deficiency and a trend towards the premature loss of red blood cells and the development of anemia. Many people with G6PD feel fine but certain events (viral or bacterial infections, certain sulfa medications, certain antibiotics or eating fava/broad beans – a condition called favism) can trigger hemolysis. Less than 10% of normal indicates severe deficiency. Symptoms of G6PD Deficiency include fatigue, pale or yellow skin, dark urine, rapid heart rate, shortness of breath.
Optimal levels are between 11 - 15 U/g Hb (U/g of hemoglobin)
It appears that elevated levels of G6PD are not clinically relevant.