Massive acute haemolysis in neonates with glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency

Three neonates with glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency are described. All three patients suffered an episode of massive acute haemolysis, in the absence of blood group incompatibilities, infection, or ingestion of oxidising agents known to trigger haemolysis. One patient died, but the other two survived after an exchange transfusion. This highlights that G6PD deficiency in the neonatal period may present with severe anaemia in association with hyperbilirubinaemia.