Common G6PD variant from Saudi population and its prevalence

Abstract

Biochemical characterization of erythrocyte glucose-6-phosphate-dehydrogenase from 18 unrelated deficient Saudi subjects from Al-Hassa and Al-Qatif areas of the Eastern Province was carried out according to WHO procedures. This has led to the identification of one genetically determined common variant, 'G6PD Mediterranean.' The overall prevalence rate of this deficiency in these areas was determined to be in excess of 42%. None of the subjects studied displayed any sign of favism, a condition usually associated with G6PD Mediterranean, which is characterized by a very low intracellular enzyme activity.