favism

Main Entry: fa·vism
Pronunciation: 'fä-"viz-&m, 'fA-
Function: noun
: a hereditary allergic condition especially of males of Mediterraneandescent that causes a severe reaction to the broad bean or its pollen which is characterized by hemolytic anemia, fever, and jaundice

favism fa·vism (fā'vĭz'əm)
n.
An acute hereditary condition in which the ingestion of certain species of beans, or the inhalation of the pollen of their flowers, causes fever, headache, abdominal pain, severe anemia, prostration, and coma.

favism

a hereditary disorder involving an allergic-like reaction to the broad, or fava, bean (Vicia faba). Susceptible persons may develop a blood disorder (hemolytic anemia) by eating the beans, or even by walking through a field where the plants are in flower.

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