Review article

Oral Allergy Syndrome

Željka Roje ; KBC Split
Goran Račić ; KBC Split

Abstract

Oral allergy syndrome was recognized as a separate entity in 1987. It is a part of the pollen-food syndrome which develops in patients with seasonal allergic rhinitis as a result of cross reactivity between pollen antigens and food proteins from fruits, vegetables and spices. Antigens related to oral allergy syndrome are generally thermolabile and degradable by digestive enzymes. The following symptoms may occur in the upper digestive tract (mouth, oral cavity and oropharynx): tingling, itching or burning sensation of lips, mouth and throat, and edema of the lips, tongue, soft palate and oropharynx. Symptoms occur immediately after implicated food consumption. Systemic symptoms are very rare. A positive history of typical symptoms after eating typical plant food and concomitant history of seasonal allergic rhinitis are essential for the diagnosis of oral allergy syndrome. Management includes avoidance of certain fruits and vegetables. Cooking can be helpful as well. Antihistamines can alleviate symptoms. The role of specific immunotherapy with pollen antigens remains controversial.

Keywords

food hyperreactivity; allergic rhinitis; profilins; immunotherapy

Hrčak ID:

81147

URI

https://hrcak.srce.hr/81147

Publication date:

19.12.2011.

Article data in other languages: croatian

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