Co-inheritance of Glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase Deficiency and Sickle Cell Traits in Sokoto Metropolis

Background: Transfusion from glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G-6-PD) deficient and Sickle cell traits (HbAS) blood constitute a major health burden and social challenge, especially to jaundiced neonate and sickle cell disease patient. Currently, routine screening of these two abnormal genes on blood donors in our locality is yet to be introduced. However, this study aimed at bridging the gap.

Methodology: This study screened 1000 volunteers for G-6-PD deficiency using methaemoglobin reduction method. Haemoglobin phenotypes of the deficient subjects were determined by alkaline cellulose acetate electrophoresis.

Results: Out of 1000 volunteers; 36.7% were G-6-PD deficient [128 (36.2%) were males; 248 (62.5%) were females]. Haemoglobin phenotypes (HbAA, HbAS, HbSS, HbAC, HbSC and HbCC) of these deficient subjects were; 71.30%, 23.90%, 0.50%, 3.70%, 0.30% and 0.30% respectively. No incidence of HbSS, HbSC, and HbCC in G-6-PD deficient male was recorded.

Conclusion: Co-inheritance with G-6-PD deficiency and HbAS is high. This finding has importance in blood transfusion setting, as routine screening of these inherited disorders prior to blood donation may help in reducing the potential risk of haemolytic complications and also prevent failure of white blood cell filtration among high risk persons.