Patient's question:
My child ate some new broad beans and said they had soy sauce-colored urine. What's the reason for this, and can it be treated?Doctor's answer:
Hello: A small number of people may develop acute hemolytic anemia after eating broad beans, a condition known as favism. This disease is related to genetics.90% of cases occur in males, and it is more common in children, especially those under the age of 5.
The onset is sudden, often occurring within hours to days after consuming broad beans, and is characterized by symptoms such as dizziness, palpitations, fatigue, loss of appetite, diarrhea, fever, jaundice, and anemia. Severe cases may lead to coma, convulsions, hemoglobinuria, and even shock, with rare cases resulting in death. The severity of symptoms is unrelated to the amount of broad beans consumed—sometimes just one or two beans can trigger the condition. Some individuals may develop symptoms simply by inhaling or coming into contact with broad bean pollen.
Favism can be treated with high doses of vitamins B and C, fluid replacement, and other measures. Blood transfusions and corticosteroids (such as hydrocortisone or dexamethasone) may be necessary if needed.
Prevention is key in managing favism. Individuals or family members with a history of favism should avoid eating broad beans and avoid contact with broad bean pollen.