Can favism cause jaundice?

Jul 01, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health
Disease description:

I heard that G6PD deficiency in newborns can cause jaundice, but I'm a bit skeptical and would like to ask: can G6PD deficiency cause jaundice?

Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Shen Yonghua
Favism may cause jaundice. Favism is a congenital metabolic disorder caused by a deficiency of glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G-6-PD). Patients may experience acute intravascular hemolysis after consuming fava beans or certain oxidative drugs. Hemolysis leads to elevated serum bilirubin levels, which can cause jaundice, manifesting as yellowing of the skin, mucous membranes, and sclera, as well as darkened urine. In addition, favism may be accompanied by symptoms such as anemia, hemoglobinuria, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. In severe cases, it can lead to coma, convulsions, and acute renal failure. Therefore, patients with favism should observe dietary restrictions and seek timely medical treatment to reduce the occurrence of jaundice and other complications.