Sarcouncil Journal of Medical Series

Abstract: Objectives: To detect the frequency of G6PD deficiency in 100 neonates admitted with jaundice to the neonatal unit, Sulaimanyah, pediatric teaching hospital. Material and Methods: This descriptive study was conducted in the Neonatal Unit of Sulaimanyah, a pediatric teaching hospital, from September 2011 to February 2012. One hundred cases of neonatal jaundice of both sexes admitted to the Neonatal Unit, Sulaimanyah, pediatric teaching hospital, were enrolled in the study. Detailed history and clinical examination were recorded. All the neonates were subjected to be an estimation of Serum Bilirubin levels (Total, Direct, and Indirect) G-6-PD detection via methemoglobin reduction test; normal blood yields color similar to that of normal reference tube, which is red, and blood from deficient subjects gives brown color similar to that in the deficient reference tube. Blood groups of both the mother and the baby besides retic count, Coomb`s test, looking at the peripheral smears, and other relevant investigations. Results: Out of the 100 icteric neonates, 72 (72 %) were males, while 28 (28%) were females. Sixteen (16%) babies were found to be G6PD deficient. 94(94%) cases presented with neonatal jaundice in the first week of life, while the age of presentation amongst the G6PD deficient neonates was between the 2nd to 4th day of life. An Indirect serum bilirubin level of >15mg\dl was found in these G6PD deficient neonates. Conclusion: G6PD deficiency is a common cause of neonatal jaundice and has more preponderance for the male sex. G6PD deficient babies present with jaundice in the 2nd – 4th days of life in 12 (75%) cases