G6PD Test Price, Normal Range & Deficiency Blood Test

G6PD Test Explained

The G6PD test is a blood test that measures the activity or level of glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase. It is an enzyme in the human body that helps in the normal functioning of red blood cells. Doctors usually recommend this test to diagnose G6PD deficiency, which can cause red blood cells to break down too early when triggered by medications, infections, or foods.

Keep reading to learn more about the G6PD test, its price range, why it is done, symptoms that call for the test, procedure, preparation, and more.

Quick Highlights Box

What is the G6PD Test?

G6PD is an enzyme in your red blood cells that prevents them from oxidative damage and converts glucose into energy. Oxidative damage occurs when reactive oxygen species (free radicals) are generated during normal cellular metabolism or due to external stressors, exceeding the body's antioxidant capacity.

The free radicals lead to oxidative stress, which causes severe diseases like cardiovascular issues, cancer, etc. Adequate G6PD level protects an individual’s cells from these dangerous molecules. If an individual suffers from G6PD deficiency, their red blood cells become weak and prone to destruction, which can result in haemolytic anaemia.

A G6PD test helps doctors determine the risk of a patient having G6PD deficiency. It helps ensure that the individual with G6PD deficiency receives the required treatment to prevent the complications.

Why is the G6PD Test Done?

A G6PD test, as already mentioned, is used to detect G6PD deficiency in a person, especially in those with jaundice or unexplained anaemia. It helps check the risk before an individual starts specific medicines, which can trigger the breakdown of red blood cells.   

Doctors often suggest a G6PD deficiency test for individuals with symptoms of paleness, fatigue, shortness of breath after starting a new medicine or illness, etc. Newborn screening is recommended in high-prevalence populations or when neonatal jaundice is present.

What is the Price for the G6PD Test in India?

The average G6PD test price in India may range between 500 and 2000, depending on the location, diagnostic centre, and additional services. You should confirm the pricing from the local hospital or diagnostic centre where you prefer to get the test done.

The table below represents the G6PD test price across different cities in India:

What Symptoms Indicate the Need for a G6PD Test?

Individuals experiencing symptoms of haemolytic anaemia should get a G6PD test. Usually, an individual does not develop symptoms of haemolytic anaemia if there is no trigger. Here are some of the symptoms that call for a G6PD test:

• Viral or bacterial infections
• Medicines such as antimalarial pills, antibiotics, or NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) can trigger G6PD deficiency.
• Fatigue
• Syncope (fainting)
• Heart palpitations or rapid heartbeat
• Dyspnea or shortness of breath
• Red or brown-coloured urination
• Jaundice or yellowing of the eyes or skin
• Pale or washed-out skin

What is the Procedure for the G6PD Test?

The glucose phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency test helps measure the level of G6PD enzyme in red blood cells. It helps diagnose the deficiency of G6PD, which is a genetic disorder that can lead to haemolytic anaemia. The step of the G6PD test procedure is explained below:

• Step 1: Collection of Sample: The medical professional will rub a cotton swab on your arm, usually in the inner part of the elbow, to draw the blood. A needle is inserted into the vein to collect the required amount of blood sample. You may feel a slight prick or burning sensation.
• Step 2: Sample Handling: The sample is collected in a test tube and sent to the laboratory for testing. Some laboratories are equipped with special equipment to measure the activity of the G6PD enzyme in your red blood cells.
• Step 3: Care After Sample Collection: The individual may experience sensitivity or minor bruising in the area from where blood is drawn. Generally, it goes away within one or two days. However, regular activity can be resumed immediately after the test.
• Step 4: Result: The report of G6PD is obtained within a few days. Those who have G6PD deficiencies will get a low G6PD level, which can lead to the breakdown of the RBC if exposed to specific drugs, foods, or infections.

How to Prepare for the G6PD Test?

A G6PD test does not usually require any special preparation. You can continue your normal diet before taking the test. However, here are some of the factors that you need to inform your healthcare provider:

• If you have a family history of G6PD deficiency or any other kind of blood-related disorder.
• In case you are experiencing symptoms like shortness of breath, fatigue, yellowish eyes or skin.
• Inform your doctor about any supplements, medications, or herbal remedies you are taking, as some can affect test results.

The doctor may ask you to stop such medications temporarily before taking the test to ensure the report is accurate.

Why Does a Baby Need a G6PD Test?

Babies may also need a G6PD test because of the following reasons:

• Babies with a family history of G6PD deficiency or any blood-related disorders need to undergo a G6PD test.
• If a baby develops jaundice at an early age, a G6PD test is recommended to determine if a deficiency is the reason for such conditions.

Early diagnosis helps doctors and parents to prevent anaemia-causing triggers or other serious health problems in a baby.

What is the Risk for the G6PD Test?

Though the G6PD test is usually safe, the following minor risks are associated with it.

• Soreness or Bruising: Some people may experience tenderness or mild bruising in the area from where blood has been drawn.
• Bleeding: A small amount of bleeding may occur at the puncture site, but it usually stops quickly.
• Dizziness: Some individuals may feel lightheaded when blood is drawn from their vein.
• Infection: Though it's very rare, some individuals may have a risk of infection in the area from where blood is drawn.

What Does the Report for the G6PD Test Interpret?

The result of the G6PD test differs for every individual. However, the general interpretation of the G6PD test report is as follows:

• Normal Range: The normal G6PD range for an adult is 5.5 – 20.5 units/gram of haemoglobin. If your report is within this range, you don’t have any G6PD deficiency.
  Note: Reference ranges may vary depending on the laboratory and assay used; always interpret results based on the lab-specific reference range.
• Moderate Deficiency Range: A moderate deficiency is defined as having 10%–60% of the normal range of G6PD enzyme in your blood. A person with a mild G6PD deficiency may get intermittent haemolytic anaemia. Usually, an illness or your meds are to blame.
• Severe Deficiency: If your blood contains fewer than 10% of the typical range of G6PD enzymes, you have a severe deficiency. You may have persistent haemolytic anaemia if you have a significant deficit. People with severe deficiencies may occasionally get intermittent anaemia.

Who Needs a G6PD Test?

A G6PD test is recommended for the following individuals:

• Individuals with a family history of blood-related disorders or G6PD deficiency
• People who have symptoms of fatigue, anaemia, or jaundice
• Infants or newborns who have developed early signs of jaundice or are at risk because of their ethnicity
• Individuals who are exposed to triggers of specific foods, such as fava beans, infections, etc. or experience related symptoms
• Those who are taking medicines like antimalarials, antibiotics, etc., can get triggered by haemolysis if they are G6PD-deficient
• People with unexplained RBC breakdown or who have experienced haemolytic episodes

The G6PD test helps detect the risk so that the patient can prevent the triggers and seek adequate health care.

Does Health Insurance Cover G6PD Test?

Many health insurance providers in India provide coverage for the Glucose 6 Phosphate Dehydrogenase test. However, the coverage may vary depending on the policy you have selected and the reason why you are getting the test done.

It is essential to consult with your insurance provider before purchasing a plan to understand the coverage and exclusions, or if there are any out-of-pocket expenses. Go through the policy documents carefully before finalising a plan.

Reader Information: This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Test prices, normal ranges, and procedures may vary depending on the laboratory and location. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for accurate diagnosis, treatment, and interpretation of test results. Health insurance coverage for diagnostic tests may differ based on your policy terms and conditions, so it is advisable to check with your insurer for specific details.