Final answer:
The most likely trigger of a hemolytic episode in individuals with G6PD deficiency is oxidative stress. This can be caused by severe infections, certain medications, and specific foods, such as broad beans. The reduction of glutathione in the red blood cells of individuals with G6PD deficiency makes enzymes like hemoglobin more susceptible to damage.
Step-by-step explanation:
Hemolytic episodes in individuals with glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency are typically triggered by states of oxidative stress. These episodes can be caused by severe infections, certain medications, and specific foods. For example, broad beans contain vicine, divicine, convicine, and isouramil – all of which are oxidants that can lead to a hemolytic episode. In individuals with G6PD deficiency, this condition occurs when glutathione levels in red blood cells are reduced, making enzymes like hemoglobin more vulnerable to damage.