Effect of G-6 PD deficiency on sickle cell disease in Saudi Arabia.

High incidence of G6PD deficiency has been reported in areas of the eastern province of Saudi Arabia where sickle cell gene is also prevalent. This study was conducted to assess the co-incidence of this enzymopathy with Hb S and its influence upon the clinical and hematological expression of sickle cell disease. Eighty three children with SS disease, 145 patients with sickle cell trait and 100 random cord blood as samples with normal Hb AF, and an FS electrophoretic pattern respectively were examined. The frequency of interaction of G6PD deficiency with Hb S was found significantly increased but no effect of this enzyme defect was discerned on the clinical and hematological status of homozygous sickle cell disease.