What is the most likely outcome for a patient with glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency when he or she takes aspirin or an antimalarial drug?
A)Rapid elimination of the drug with no benefit
B)Liver damage or failure
C)Hemolytic anemia
D)Fluid retention

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

G6PD is an enzyme needed for red blood cells (erythrocytes) to maintain integrity during oxidative stress. Certain drugs, such as aspirin, antimalarials, probenecid, and vitamin K, increase the level of oxidative stress on red blood cells. With a deficiency of G6PD, the increased oxidative stress caused by these drugs leads to rapid destruction of red blood cells that is greater than the rate at which they can be produced by the bone marrow, resulting in hemolytic anemia.

What Is the Most Likely Outcome for a Patient with Glucose-6-Phosphate