G6PD Deficiency

What is a G6PD deficiency? 

G6PD (glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase) deficiency can cause jaundice at any age, including in newborn pēpi. It mostly affects males. It is inherited. It is more common in pēpi with parents of Asian, African, or Mediterranean descent. 

In G6PD deficiency, red blood cells may break down (haemolyse). This leads to more bilirubin being produced than normal and a high chance of jaundice.

See the KidsHealth page on jaundice in babies for more information