G-6-PD Deficiency as the Cause of Isolated Peripheral Retinal Ischemia

Introduction

G-6-PD deficiency constitutes the most common human enzyme defect, present in more than 400 million people worldwide [1]. Though its existence and its classical clinical manifestation of favism have been known for centuries, renewed interest has emerged in the past few years concerning its potential pathogenic roles in diseases other than hemolytic disorders. Ocular repercussions of G-6-PD deficiency have not been exhaustively studied, however it has been shown that G-6-PD deficient individuals suffer from an increased risk of cataract. The two cases reported here underscore the potential role of G-6-PD deficiency in the development of peripheral retinal vascular ischemia.

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