G6PD Deficiency (cont.)

This condition is inherited in an X-linked recessive pattern. The gene associated with this condition is located on the X chromosome, which is one of the two sex chromosomes. In males (who have only one X chromosome), one altered copy of the gene in each cell is sufficient to cause the condition. In females (who have two X chromosomes), a mutation would have to occur in both copies of the gene to cause the disorder. Because it is unlikely that females will have two altered copies of this gene, males are affected by X-linked recessive disorders much more frequently than females. A striking characteristic of X-linked inheritance is that fathers cannot pass X-linked traits to their sons.

• Deficiency of glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase
• G6PDD
• G6PD Deficiency

SOURCE: Genetics Home Reference. Glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency.

Last Editorial Review: 7/9/2009

Source: MedicineNet.com
http://www.medicinenet.com/g6pd_deficiency/article.htm