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Allergic contact dermatitis to cardamom, a common baking spice, is reported in a confectioner. This case highlights potential skin reactions from cardamom
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Allergology
- Food Science
Background:
- Cardamom is a widely used spice in baked goods and confectionery.
- Chronic hand dermatitis is a common occupational hazard in the food industry.
Observation:
- A confectioner presented with chronic hand dermatitis.
- Patch testing revealed positive reactions to cardamom and its constituent terpenoids.
Findings:
- This case represents the first reported instance of allergic contact dermatitis caused by cardamom exposure.
- Terpenes within cardamom seeds were identified as the likely allergens.
Implications:
- Occupational dermatitis from cardamom should be considered in food industry workers.
- Further research into spice-related allergens is warranted.
Abstract:
A case is presented of a confectioner with a chronic hand dermatitis and positive patch test reactions to cardamom and certain terpenoid compounds present in the dried ripe seeds of cardamom. Cardamom is a popular traditional flavouring agent for baked goods and confectionery. Dermatitis from skin exposure to cardamom has to the best of our knowledge not been reported. We report one case of allergic contact dermatitis to cardamom elicited by terpenes present in the seeds.