G6PD (Glucose-6-Phosphate Dehydrogenase) Test in Kathmandu

About this test

This test measures the activity of glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase, an enzyme inside your red blood cells that protects them from oxidative stress. When the enzyme is deficient — an inherited, X-linked condition that affects men far more often than women — red cells become fragile and can rupture suddenly when exposed to certain triggers, causing acute haemolytic anaemia. The classic triggers are specific medicines (antimalarials such as primaquine and chloroquine, certain antibiotics like co-trimoxazole and nitrofurantoin, and dapsone), fava (broad) beans, mothballs containing naphthalene, and the oxidative stress of infections. A doctor typically orders this test before prescribing antimalarial treatment — particularly relevant in Nepal's malaria-endemic Terai districts — or after a patient develops unexplained jaundice, dark or tea-coloured urine, sudden pallor and fatigue following a new drug, illness, or a meal of beans. It is also commonly checked in a newborn with prolonged or severe neonatal jaundice, since deficiency can worsen bilirubin levels dangerously. Results are usually read alongside a complete blood count, reticulocyte count, and bilirubin to confirm whether haemolysis is occurring. One important caveat: during an active haemolytic crisis the oldest, most deficient cells have already been destroyed, leaving younger cells with near-normal enzyme levels, so the test can read falsely normal — which is why timing the sample correctly matters and repeat testing is sometimes advised. A confirmed deficiency is not a disease to fear but a lifelong instruction to avoid known triggers, and carrying a simple list of medicines and foods to avoid keeps most people completely well.

Sample type

Whole blood (EDTA)

Preparation

No fasting required. Importantly, the test should ideally be done when you are NOT in the middle of an active episode of haemolysis (red-cell breakdown) and at least three months after any recent blood transfusion, as both can give a falsely normal result. Tell us if you have recently been unwell or received blood.

Turnaround time

Reports for G6PD (Glucose-6-Phosphate Dehydrogenase) are typically ready within: 3rd Working Day. Reports can be collected at the clinic during opening hours or shared via WhatsApp once they are ready.

Also known as

Other biochemistry tests we run

These are routinely ordered alongside G6PD (Glucose-6-Phosphate Dehydrogenase) or as part of the same diagnostic workup.

How to book

WhatsApp is the fastest way — message us with the test name and your preferred time, and we'll confirm a slot the same day. You can also walk into the clinic at Rumba Chowk, Sanobharang any day between 7AM and 8PM, or fill in our online booking form.