What is Glucose-6-phosphate Dehydrogenase Deficiency?
G6PD deficiency is a genetic disorder that affects the enzyme responsible for the first step of the pentose phosphate pathway. This condition can lead to a reduced capacity to manage oxidative stress. Certain medications, foods, or infections can trigger oxidative stress, leading to the destruction of red blood cells in affected individuals. Awareness of this condition is crucial in clinical toxicology to prevent adverse drug reactions.