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Question

Which of the following statements regarding G6PD enzyme deficiency are correct?
1. It is an X-linked deficiency.
2. Geographical distribution parallels the malaria belt.
3. Consumption of fava beans is protective.
4. Transfusion support may be life saving.
Select the correct answer using the code given below:

The correct answer is
1, 2 and 4

G6PD Deficiency Statements Analysis

This section analyzes the provided statements about Glucose-6-Phosphate Dehydrogenase (G6PD) enzyme deficiency.

Statement 1: X-linked Deficiency

G6PD deficiency is inherited in an X-linked recessive pattern. This means the gene responsible for G6PD is located on the X chromosome. Males, having only one X chromosome, are more frequently and severely affected than females.

Conclusion: Statement 1 is correct.

Statement 2: Geographical Distribution

The prevalence of G6PD deficiency is highest in regions historically affected by malaria, such as parts of Africa, Asia, the Mediterranean, and the Middle East. This pattern arises because the deficiency offers a degree of protection against the malaria parasite, Plasmodium falciparum, providing a survival advantage in endemic areas.

Conclusion: Statement 2 is correct.

Statement 3: Fava Bean Consumption

Consumption of fava beans (Vicia faba) is known to trigger acute hemolytic anemia in individuals with G6PD deficiency. The beans contain oxidant compounds that cause oxidative stress, leading to the destruction of red blood cells in deficient individuals. Therefore, fava beans are a known trigger, not a protective food.

Conclusion: Statement 3 is incorrect.

Statement 4: Transfusion Support

In cases of severe hemolysis caused by G6PD deficiency (e.g., triggered by infections, certain medications, or fava beans), red blood cell destruction can be rapid and life-threatening. Blood transfusions are often necessary to replace destroyed red blood cells and restore adequate oxygen-carrying capacity, making them potentially life-saving.

Conclusion: Statement 4 is correct.

Final Answer Compilation

Based on the analysis, the correct statements are 1, 2, and 4.

  • Statement 1: Correct (X-linked inheritance)
  • Statement 2: Correct (Malaria belt distribution)
  • Statement 3: Incorrect (Fava beans are triggers)
  • Statement 4: Correct (Transfusion support is vital)

Therefore, the combination including statements 1, 2, and 4 is the correct choice.

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Important Questions from Anemia

  1. A 39-year-old female presents with severe autoimmune hemolytic anemia. Which of the following should be the initial step in its management?
  2. Which one of the following is a cause of relative erythrocytosis?
  3. Which one of the following conditions characteristically may present with a triad of haemolysis, pancytopenia and venous thrombosis?
  4. Which one of the following is associated with low MCV of red blood cells?
  5. Which one of the following is the primary underlying mechanism of haemolysis in paroxysmal nocturnal haemoglobinuria (PNH)?
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