Question

The Mediterranean variant of G6PD deficiency results in a markedly reduced half-life of G6PD, thus leading to marked intravascular hemolysis with oxidative stress. What are the common populations affected by this variant?

1) Greek
2) Italian
3) French
4) Spanish
5) Turkish

Answer 1

The Mediterranean variant of G6PD deficiency affects populations such as Greek, Italian, French, Spanish, and Turkish, leading to issues with red blood cell integrity and necessitating avoidance

Step-by-step explanation:

The Mediterranean variant of G6PD deficiency is known to lead to significant intravascular hemolysis in response to oxidative stress. This hereditary condition predominantly affects populations in the Mediterranean basin and is frequently observed in populations such as Greek, Italian, French, Spanish, and Turkish communities.

Individuals with G6PD deficiency must be vigilant about exposure to certain foods, medicines, and stressors that could trigger hemolysis due to their reduced levels of glutathione which normally helps protect red blood cells against oxidative damage.

Prolonged neonatal jaundice is a common manifestation of G6PD deficiency, which can result in severe newborn jaundice if not managed appropriately. Furthermore, because G6PD deficiency is an X-linked condition, it is more commonly diagnosed in males, though female carriers can also be clinically affected.

This condition provides a selective advantage in malaria-endemic regions, as individuals with G6PD deficiency may have a lower susceptibility to malaria infection, which historically has been a widespread and deadly disease.