Anemia and G6PD Deficiency

Anemia and G6PD Deficiency (Favism) are among the most common health problems, affecting both adults and children. However, their causes, symptoms, and management differ.
In this article, we highlight the differences between the two conditions, the importance of early diagnosis, and the role of precise medical tests in detecting them.

What is Anemia and Favism?

Anemia is a health condition caused by a decrease in red blood cells or hemoglobin, responsible for carrying oxygen throughout the body. The most common types include:

• Iron deficiency anemia
• Acute anemia
• Hereditary anemia

Symptoms of anemia include fatigue, pale face, rapid heartbeat, and difficulty concentrating.

What is Favism?

Favism, scientifically known as G6PD deficiency, is a type of hereditary anemia caused by a deficiency of an important enzyme in red blood cells.
This deficiency can cause the breakdown of red blood cells when consuming certain foods like fava beans, or when exposed to some medications or infections.

What is the Difference Between Anemia and Favism?

• Cause: Anemia may result from iron or vitamin deficiency, whereas Favism is hereditary, related to G6PD enzyme deficiency.
• Triggers: Favism is triggered by certain foods, while anemia develops gradually due to dietary deficiency or chronic disease.
• Diagnosis Method: The required tests differ between the two conditions, as will be explained below.

Main Symptoms of Each Type

Symptoms of Anemia

• Persistent fatigue and weakness
• Pale skin
• Shortness of breath
• Dizziness and headaches

Symptoms of Favism

• Yellowing of skin and eyes
• Dark-colored urine
• Abdominal or back pain
• Sudden breakdown of red blood cells after consuming fava beans or certain medications

How are Anemia and Favism Diagnosed?

Diagnosis relies on a series of precise blood tests that reveal deficiencies in blood components or hereditary enzyme disorders.

Main required tests include:

• Complete Blood Count (CBC)
• Hemoglobin and hematocrit analysis
• Favism test (G6PD Enzyme Test)
• Hereditary anemia tests
• Vitamin and iron deficiency tests
• Red blood cell examination
• Infant blood screening (for early detection of hereditary cases)

All these tests are available with high accuracy at the best diagnostic lab in Saudi Arabia – Advanced Cell Laboratories.

Who is at Risk?

For anemia

• Women of childbearing age
• Individuals on iron-poor diets
• Patients with chronic diseases

For Favism

• Newborns (especially males)
• Individuals with a family history of the condition
• People of Middle Eastern or African descent

Role of Advanced Cell Laboratories in Diagnosis and Follow-up

Advanced Cell Laboratories offers the latest diagnostic technologies with advanced analyzers providing accurate and fast results for tests including:

• Enzyme deficiency tests
• Hereditary Favism tests
• Chronic and acute anemia tests
• Iron and vitamin deficiency tests

The lab also provides consultations from experts to analyze results and create personalized follow-up plans for each patient.

Frequently Asked Questions About Anemia and Favism

Can anemia be cured?

Yes, most cases of anemia can be treated after diagnosing the cause, either through diet or supplements.

Is Favism dangerous?

It can be dangerous if not diagnosed early or if exposed to triggers that cause red blood cell breakdown.

What is the difference between CBC and Favism testing?

CBC monitors the general condition of the blood, while Favism testing identifies G6PD enzyme deficiency.

Do children need Favism testing?

Yes, especially in families with a history of the condition, to avoid complications from fava beans or trigger medications.

Ultimately, early diagnosis remains the key to preventing complications from anemia and Favism. If you notice any concerning symptoms, do not hesitate to undergo regular testing.
Visit Advanced Cell Laboratories today to conduct the necessary tests accurately and safely under the care of top specialists.