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Buckwheat pillow-induced asthma and allergic rhinitis
Stephen B Fritz1, Bernard L Gold
1Division of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, The University of Michigan Medical Center, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109-0380, USA. sbfritz@umich.edu
Summary
A patient developed asthma and allergic rhinitis from buckwheat pillows, confirmed by IgE testing. Removing the pillows resolved symptoms, indicating a hypersensitivity reaction.
Area of Science:
- Allergy and Immunology
- Environmental Health
Background:
- Immunoglobulin E (IgE)-mediated hypersensitivity is a proposed mechanism for adverse reactions to buckwheat.
- This case is the first reported in the US linking buckwheat pillow exposure to asthma and allergic rhinitis.
Observation:
- A patient presented with asthma and worsening allergic rhinitis after exposure to a buckwheat pillow.
- Skin prick and ImmunoCAP testing revealed a strong IgE-mediated response to buckwheat.
Findings:
- The patient exhibited a strongly positive ImmunoCAP test for buckwheat-specific IgE (class 4).
- Removal of buckwheat pillows led to symptom resolution, including asthma and improved rhinitis.
- Standard allergy avoidance measures for dust mites did not improve symptoms.
Implications:
- This case supports an IgE-mediated mechanism for buckwheat pillow-induced respiratory symptoms.
- Healthcare providers should consider buckwheat pillow allergy in patients with unexplained asthma and rhinitis.
- Further research into buckwheat allergens and cross-reactivity may be warranted.