Glucose 6 phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency (G6PD deficiency) is the commonest red blood cell enzyme disorder that affects hundreds of millions around the globe. The red cells deficient in the enzyme become vulnerable to oxidative stress after exposure to certain drugs, chemicals, or food leading to hemolysis. We present a five-year-old boy admitted to burn unit after scold burn by boiling water. He was treated with an application of silver sulfadiazine cream to the burn sites, paracetamol, and intravenous fluids. The boy developed pallor and jaundice on the fifth day of admission with evidence of acute hemolysis and documented G6PD deficiency during the incidence. We hypothesize that sliver sulfadiazine could be absorbed through burn and trigger hemolysis in G6PD deficient individuals; therefore, replacing this antibiotic with a safe one is advised in these individuals, as well as introducing neonatal screening for G6PD deficiency in the high prevalent communities to avoid oxidative triggers and increase awareness in both health care workers as well as the general population.
Key words: Acute hemolysis, G6PD deficiency, Burn
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