Frequency, Severity & Outcome of G6PD Deficiency Among Male Newborns Presenting to Neonatal Unit of A Tertiary Care Hospital with Neonatal Jaundice

Abstract

Background: Glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency is a common genetic disorder affecting red blood cells. It predisposes newborns to hemolysis, particularly under oxidative stress, leading to neonatal jaundice, which, if untreated, may result in severe complications like kernicterus. This study examines the frequency, severity, and outcomes of G6PD deficiency among male neonates with jaundice admitted to the neonatal unit of a tertiary care hospital.
Methods: A retrospective study on a cohort of 250 male neonates, randomly selected by convenience sampling, admitted with NNJ to the neonatal unit of QHAMC Nowshera, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan, in the period between January 2024 to June 2024, was conducted with a focus on identifying those with G6PD deficiency and tracking their clinical outcomes. The severity of jaundice, associated hemolytic episodes, and outcomes such as treatment response and complications were analyzed.
Results: Out of 250 neonates admitted with neonatal jaundice, 42 (16.8%) were diagnosed with G6PD deficiency. The severity of jaundice ranged from mild (19.0%) to moderate (47.6%) to severe (33.4%). Phototherapy was the primary treatment in 90.5% of cases, and exchange transfusion was required in 9.5% of cases. One case (2.4%) developed kernicterus. All neonates with mild jaundice recovered fully with no long-term complications, while severe cases had extended hospital stays.
Conclusion: Results indicate that G6PD deficiency is a leading cause of neonatal jaundice, particularly in populations at higher risk due to genetic factors. Early diagnosis and treatment significantly improve outcomes, though complications such as kernicterus remain a risk in severe cases.