Prevalence of Glucose-6-phosphate Dehydrogenase (G6PD) Deficiency in Patients Suspected of Favism in Qaleh Ganj, Southern Iran: A Restriction for Malaria Elimination

Background and purpose: Despite wide fight against malaria in endemic regions, it is still one of the most serious infectious diseases in some parts of the world. Primakin is effective in treatment and prevention of malaria. However, individuals with glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency are at risk for hemolysis and its complications when taking primakin. This study was performed to determine the prevalence of G6PD deficiency in patients suspected of favism in Qaleh Ganj, Kerman, Iran. Materials and methods: This study was conducted in 2020 and blood samples were taken from all patients suspicious of favism attending Shohada Hospital in Qaleh Ganj, southern Iran. The G6PD enzyme activity was evaluated by fluorescent spot test using a commercial kit. Data were analyzed using SPSS V23. Results: In this study, 235 patients (88 males and 147 females) were examined. Fifty eight people (24.7%) had abnormal levels (deficiency) of G6PD enzyme, 38 (65.6%) of whom had severe deficiency and 20 (34.4%) had partial deficiency. No significant relationship was found between sex and G6PD level (P= 0.96). Conclusion: The study showed a high prevalence of G6PD deficiency in this region. So, attention should be paid to this issue when prescribing oxidative drugs, especially antimalarial drugs.