Toxicity : In cases of favism, very high.
What is favism ?
It is a medical condition that seems to have an inherited origin and
affects certain populations in Africa, Southeast Asia or the
Mediterranean, especially on the island of Sardinia. It arises after
ingestion of pollen, nuts or fruits of broad beans.
The favism occurs only in people who genetically have a deficiency of the enzyme glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase. This gap allows some components of the beans can produce substances that induce the breakdown of red blood cells so that those who suffer this condition show hemolytic anemia in a greater or lesser degree.
Since the favism is related to the X chromosome, males are more severely affected than females, which are simply transmitting or suffering it in a more mild manner.
Symptoms of favism
Normally favism manifests as fatigue, fever or headache. Sometimes they manifest as vomiting, intestinal discomfort or dizziness which usually disappear within a week.
Some initial symptoms of favism are a dark micturition, jaundice and the feeling of permanent tiredness . Given this possibility, especially, if there is family history of this condition, it is advised to conduct a blood test.
If the reasons which induce to it or in case treatment is neglected or avoided, other more serious reactions may occur. Among the main consequences we can point out hepatism, anemia, cardio-respiratory failure, coma and death.
Treatment of favism
The best treatment includes not to eat this food and take it away to prevent pollen inhalation. Some patients could need blood transfusion in more severe cases of anemia.
Besides beans, certain drugs can also trigger the same attack, so that people who suffer from favism should inform their medical condition before starting any medication. Other times the ingestion of other legumes has triggered favism in people with similar reactions.
Medical treatment: blood transfusions and cortisone.
|
