[Nuts, seeds and grains from an allergist's point of view]

The incidence of allergic reactions to nuts, seeds and grains is increasing. Reactions to nuts are typically observed as part of a pollen-associated food syndrome (oral allergy syndrome). Nevertheless, anaphylactic reactions such as shock with lethal outcome may occur. With the increasing use and consumption of eastern and Asian cuisine, with foodstuffs such as sesame, paranuts or cashew nuts, these allergies are more frequent than they were formerly. Peanut allergy has become an epidemic problem in the United States. In this article allergic reactions to nuts, seeds and grains are discussed. Illustrative cases are presented.