Fixed food eruption caused by cashew nut.
Satoshi Fukushima1, Masato Kidou, Hironobu Ihn
1Department of Dermatology & Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Graduate School of Medical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Kumamoto University, Kumamoto, Japan. 056r5162@med.stud.kumamoto-u.ac.jp
Summary
Fixed eruptions can be triggered by food, not just drugs. In a case study, cashew nut was identified as the cause of a fixed food eruption, highlighting the importance of considering dietary triggers.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Allergology
- Toxicology
Background:
- Fixed drug eruptions (FDEs) are common, but identifying the causative agent can be challenging when patients deny drug use.
- While FDEs are typically drug-induced, rare cases of fixed food eruptions (FFEs) have been reported.
Observation:
- A 71-year-old woman presented with recurrent, symptomatic erythema and bullae on her ankle, which resolved with hyperpigmentation.
- The patient reported no history of drug ingestion.
- Clinical suspicion led to investigating cashew nut as a potential allergen.
Findings:
- Oral challenge and patch testing with cashew nut confirmed it as the causative agent for the patient's fixed eruption.
- This case supports cashew nut as a trigger for fixed food eruptions.
Implications:
- Clinicians should consider food allergens as potential causes of fixed eruptions, especially when drug history is negative.
- Identifying dietary triggers is crucial for managing recurrent fixed eruptions and preventing future reactions.
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