Haemolytic crisis in G6PD-deficiency triggered by recreational use of synthetic cannabis

Abstract

Glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency is the most common inherited cause of haemolytic anaemia. Recognition and avoidance of haemolytic triggers is an important part of management, both during haemolytic crises and in the long-term. We report a case of haemolytic crisis in a patient with previously undiagnosed G6PD-deficiency, triggered by the use of synthetic cannabis in the form of “spice”. To our knowledge, this is the first report of G6PD deficiency-related haemolytic crisis triggered by synthetic cannabinoids.