Haff disease

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Haff disease
File:Vistula Lagoon.jpg
Synonyms N/A
Pronounce N/A
Specialty N/A
Symptoms Rhabdomyolysis, muscle pain, weakness, brown urine
Complications N/A
Onset 24 hours after consuming affected fish
Duration Variable
Types N/A
Causes Consumption of certain types of fish
Risks Eating fish from affected areas
Diagnosis Clinical evaluation, creatine kinase levels
Differential diagnosis Myositis, polymyositis, trichinosis
Prevention N/A
Treatment Supportive care, hydration, dialysis if necessary
Medication N/A
Prognosis Generally good with treatment
Frequency Rare
Deaths Rare


Haff disease is a rare syndrome of unexplained rhabdomyolysis following consumption of certain types of fish; it is caused by an unidentified toxin in the fish.

Symptoms[edit]

The primary symptom of Haff disease is rhabdomyolysis, a condition in which skeletal muscle breaks down rapidly. Symptoms can be mild or severe and may include muscle stiffness, pain, and dark urine. Other symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, chest pain, and shortness of breath.

Causes[edit]

The exact cause of Haff disease is unknown, but it is believed to be caused by a toxin in certain types of fish. The disease has been associated with the consumption of buffalo fish, freshwater pompano, and several other species of fish.

Diagnosis[edit]

Diagnosis of Haff disease is based on the presence of rhabdomyolysis following the consumption of fish. Laboratory tests may show high levels of creatine kinase and myoglobin in the blood and urine.

Treatment[edit]

Treatment for Haff disease is primarily supportive and includes hydration to help flush the myoglobin out of the kidneys. In severe cases, hospitalization may be required.

Prevention[edit]

Prevention of Haff disease involves avoiding the consumption of fish species associated with the disease.

See also[edit]

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