Community-acquired pneumonia complications in a patient with hereditary glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency

Abstract

Severe complications of lower respiratory tract infection in a patient with hereditary glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G-6-PD) deficiency may occur. The case of a 68-year-old man with hereditary glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency who developed severe haemolysis after community-acquired pneumonia is presented. G6PD deficiency in our patient was diagnosed during childhood. We observed complications of community-acquired pneumonia: empyema, haemolytic crisis and renal failure. Videopleuroscopy and pleural drainage were successfully performed. Community-acquired streptococcal pneumonia may also lead to haemolysis in G6PD deficient patients. Acute haemolysis, severe anaemia and renal insufficiency secondary to haemoglobinuria can be observed. Severe purulent complications of pneumonia in G6PD deficient patients may suggest granulocyte function impairment. Copyright © 2007 Via Medica.