Prevalence of Glucose-6-Phosphate Dehydrogenase (G6pd) Deficiency in Southeast Iran: Implications for Malaria Elimination Publisher Pubmed



Tabatabaei SM¹ ; Khorashad AS¹ ; Sakeni M² ; Raeisi A³ ; Metanat Z⁴ Show Affiliations
Source: Journal of Infection in Developing Countries Published:2015

Abstract

Introduction: Glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency (G6PD) is an X-linked genetic disorder with a relatively high frequency in malaria-endemic regions. It is an obstacle to malaria elimination, as primaquine administered in the treatment of malaria can cause hemolysis in G6PD-deficient individuals. This study presents information on the prevalence of G6PD deficiency in Sistan and Balouchetsan province, which hosts more than 90% of Plasmodium vivax malaria cases in Iran. This type of information is needed for a successful malaria elimination program. Methodology: A total of 526 students were randomly recruited through schools located in southeast Iran. Information was collected by interviewing the students using a structured questionnaire. Blood samples taken on filter papers were examined for G6PD deficiency using the fluorescent spot test. Results: Overall, 72.8% (383/526) of the subjects showed normal G6PD enzyme function. Mild and severe G6PD deficiency was observed in 14.8% (78) and 12.2% (64) of subjects, respectively. A total 193/261 males (73.9%) and 190/265 (72%) females had normal enzyme activity. Mild G6PD deficiency was observed in 10.8% (28) and 18.9% (50) of male and female subjects, respectively. However, in comparison with females, a greater proportion of males showed severe enzyme deficiency (15.3% versus 9.1%). All these differences were statistically significant (p < 0.006). Conclusions: G6PD deficiency is highly prevalent in southeast Iran. G6PD-deficient individuals are susceptible to potentially severe and lifethreatening hemolytic reactions after primaquine treatment. In order to achieve malaria elimination goals in the province, G6PD testing needs to be made routinely available within the health system. © 2015 Tabatabaei et al.