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Asthma caused by human seminal plasma allergy
Ashok Shah1, Chandramani Panjabi, A B Singh
1Department of Respiratory Medicine, Vallabhbhai Patel Chest Institute, University of Delhi, Delhi, India. ashokshah99@yahoo.com
Summary
Human seminal plasma allergy (HSPA) is a rare condition causing allergic reactions in women after intercourse. Diagnosis requires a high index of suspicion, but condom use can effectively manage symptoms.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive Immunology
- Allergy and Immunology
Background:
- Human seminal plasma allergy (HSPA) is a rare but potentially severe hypersensitivity reaction in women.
- Symptoms manifest during or shortly after coitus, often causing significant distress.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the diagnosis and management of HSPA in young, married women presenting with postcoital symptoms and infertility.
- To highlight the importance of a high index of suspicion for diagnosing HSPA, including its less obvious local forms.
Main Methods:
- A targeted history was obtained from patients experiencing episodic asthma and conception difficulties, focusing on coitus-related symptoms.
- Two patients were evaluated, and management involved condom usage, intradermal skin testing with seminal plasma antigen (SPA), and serum specific IgE testing.
Main Results:
- Condom use effectively eliminated both local and systemic postcoital symptoms in the evaluated patients.
- Both patients showed positive intradermal skin reactions to SPA, with one experiencing intense local reactions.
- Specific IgE against SPA and elevated total IgE levels were detected in both patients' serum.
Conclusions:
- HSPA requires a high index of suspicion for diagnosis, particularly in cases with subtle local symptoms.
- Early identification and management, such as consistent condom use, can significantly alleviate symptoms and improve quality of life for affected individuals and their partners.