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Contact dermatitis to Asparagus officinalis
1Contact Dermatitis Clinic, Waikato Hospital, Hamilton, New Zealand. rademakm@hwl.co.nz
The Australasian Journal of Dermatology
|December 6, 2000
Summary
Occupational allergic contact dermatitis to asparagus affects farm workers. A specific compound, 1,2,3-Trithiane-5-carboxylic acid, found in young asparagus shoots, is the likely allergen.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Allergology
- Occupational Health
Background:
- Allergic contact dermatitis is a common skin condition.
- Occupational exposure to allergens can lead to chronic dermatitis.
- Asparagus, belonging to the Liliaceae family, contains various compounds.
Observation:
- A 53-year-old farm worker developed a 3-year history of allergic contact dermatitis.
- The patient experienced rapid symptom resolution with corticosteroids, but quick relapse upon asparagus exposure.
- Symptoms were linked to direct contact with asparagus.
Findings:
- The allergen is suspected to be 1,2,3-Trithiane-5-carboxylic acid.
- This compound is identified as a potential plant growth inhibitor.
- It is notably present in the young shoots of asparagus.
Implications:
- Identifies a specific occupational allergen in asparagus handlers.
- Highlights the need for protective measures for farm workers exposed to asparagus.
- Suggests further research into plant growth inhibitors as contact allergens.