Certified Pediatric Hematology Oncology Nurse (CPHON) Practice Exam

In patients with Glucose-6-Phosphate Dehydrogenase Deficiency (G6PDD), an increased reticulocyte count is a common laboratory finding. This condition leads to hemolytic anemia, particularly following oxidative stress, such as infection, certain medications, or ingestion of fava beans. In response to hemolysis, the bone marrow compensates by producing more red blood cells, resulting in a higher number of reticulocytes, which are immature red blood cells released into the bloodstream.

The presence of an elevated reticulocyte count indicates an active response of the bone marrow to the destruction of red blood cells due to the deficiency, aligning with the pathophysiology of the disease. This finding is significant for diagnosing and managing G6PDD, reflecting the body’s attempt to remedy the anemia caused by red blood cell destruction.