Proline induced hemolytic anemia in fascioliasis.

A secondary anemia is characteristic of infections with the liver fluke, Fasciola hepatica, and previous studies had suggested that proline released by the worm might be involved in producing this condition. In the current study the effect of fascioliasis on erythropoiesis was compared to the effects of proline infusion. Both treatments produced effects characteristic of rapid erythrocyte turnover due to hemolysis. Moreover, infusion of a proline analog into animals with Fasciola or into animals infused with proline prevented the anemia. To our knowledge the production of hemolytic anemia by excessive proline has not been previously reported.