Acute haemolytic anaemia precipitated by fava bean ingestion in a patient with previously undiagnosed glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency.

Authors

Selama Tesfamariam, Brent Lorenzen

Published in

BMJ case reports. Volume 19. Issue 9. Sep 05, 2026. Epub Sep 05, 2026.

Abstract

Glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency is a common inherited enzymatic disorder that predisposes blood cells to oxidative injury and haemolysis. It is typically diagnosed during childhood and affects males more frequently. We describe a patient presenting with profound acute haemolytic anaemia requiring transfusion following ingestion of fava bean-containing snacks. The patient presented with fatigue, dyspnoea on exertion, jaundice and dark urine. Laboratory evaluation revealed severe anaemia, elevated lactate dehydrogenase, indirect hyperbilirubinaemia and low haptoglobin levels, consistent with haemolysis. Autoimmune and infectious causes were considered unlikely after diagnostic evaluation. Initial and repeat testing confirmed G6PD deficiency. This case highlights the importance of considering G6PD deficiency in patients with unexplained haemolytic anaemia regardless of age, sex or ethnic background and underscores the need for dietary and medication counselling to prevent recurrent haemolytic episodes.

PMID:
42700977
Bibliographic data and abstract were imported from PubMed on 06 Sep 2026.

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