The importance of the anamnesis in hemolytic anemia

Glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PDH) deficiency is the most common red blood cell (RBC) enzyme disorder worldwide, with X-linked inheritance. The G6PDH enzyme participates in the pentose phosphate pathway, which is essential for RBC protection against oxidative stress. Its deficiency leads to increased susceptibility to hemolysis upon exposure to certain triggers, such as infections, medications, or oxidizing foods, and fava beans are a common trigger, causing a condition known as favism.

The clinical presentation is variable, ranging from asymptomatic episodes to severe hemolytic anemia with jaundice, dark urine, and hemodynamic compromise. The diagnosis is based on clinical suspicion and confirmed by enzyme assays and morphological examination of peripheral blood.

We present this case to highlight the importance of conducting targeted medical history in pediatric cases of hemolytic anemia, in addition to the identification of potentially avoidable triggering factors.