What condition may result from G6PD deficiency in a newborn?

G6PD deficiency, or glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency, is a genetic condition that affects the red blood cells and can lead to hemolytic anemia, particularly in newborns. This enzymatic disorder impairs the red blood cells' ability to handle oxidative stress, making them more susceptible to damage and subsequent destruction, especially when exposed to certain triggers such as infections, certain medications, or consumption of fava beans.

In a newborn, oxidative stress can be encountered naturally through factors such as hypoxia or infections. When the red blood cells cannot adequately cope with this stress due to insufficient G6PD enzyme activity, they undergo hemolysis, leading to a drop in red blood cell count and resulting in symptoms of hemolytic anemia, including jaundice, pallor, and in severe cases, lethargy or even shock. Therefore, the direct association between G6PD deficiency and hemolytic anemia makes this condition the most relevant outcome for newborns affected by this deficiency.

Other options, such as neurological impairment, respiratory distress, and congenital heart defects do not have a direct causal relationship with G6PD deficiency, making them less relevant in the context of this specific condition.