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Published on: May 31, 2021
Pectin anaphylaxis and possible association with cashew allergy
Ronald M Ferdman1, Peck Y Ong, Joseph A Church
1Division of Clinical Immunology and Allergy, Childrens Hospital Los Angeles, Department of Pediatrics, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California 90027, USA. rferdman@chla.usc.edu
Oral pectin ingestion can trigger severe allergic reactions, including anaphylaxis, in children. This highlights a potential link between pectin allergy and existing nut allergies, such as cashew and pistachio.
Area of Science:
- Food Allergy Research
- Immunology
- Occupational Health
Background:
- Pectin inhalation is a known cause of occupational asthma.
- Allergic reactions to ingested pectin have not been previously documented.
Observation:
- A pediatric case of anaphylaxis following ingestion of a pectin-containing smoothie is presented.
- The patient also exhibited allergies to cashew and pistachio.
Findings:
- Skin prick testing confirmed pectin hypersensitivity.
- High radioallergosorbent test (RAST) reactivity to cashew and pistachio was observed.
- Citrus-derived pectin was identified as the allergen source.
Implications:
- Oral pectin ingestion can induce hypersensitivity reactions, expanding beyond inhalation exposure.
- Pectin allergy may be associated with cashew and pistachio allergies.
- Consider pectin allergy in patients with unexplained allergic reactions, particularly those with nut allergies.
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