Primaquine-Sensitive Type of Drug-Induced Hemolytic Anemia

Abstract

The hemolytic effects of certain drugs and chemicals have been related to an inborn error of red blood cell metabolism. Persons with this defect are normal until exposed to moderate doses of certain compounds, of which primaquine is a notable example.

The erythrocytic defect has been observed in many ethnic groups, the incidence of abnormality varying from 2 to 25 per cent.

Clinical manifestations of drug-induced hemolysis vary according to the agent ingested.

The author discusses the diagnosis, treatment and importance of this phenomenon, and points out that it will become increasingly significant.