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Summary
Sesame seeds are potent allergens causing severe reactions like shock and wheezing. Prompt diagnosis of milder symptoms can prevent severe allergic responses to this increasingly consumed food.
Area of Science:
- Food Allergy
- Immunology
Background:
- Sesame seed consumption is rising globally.
- Allergic reactions to food are a growing public health concern.
Observation:
- Two cases of severe allergic reactions following sesame seed ingestion are presented.
- Symptoms included pruritus, erythema, angio-oedema, clinical shock, and wheezing.
- Milder preceding reactions, termed 'shock fragments,' were noted.
Findings:
- Sesame seeds are identified as an extremely potent allergen.
- Sesame oil ingestion did not elicit similar reactions in these cases.
- Early recognition and treatment of 'shock fragments' can avert severe outcomes.
Implications:
- Healthcare providers must promptly recognize sesame seed hypersensitivity.
- Timely diagnosis allows for allergen avoidance and appropriate management.
- Increased sesame seed consumption may lead to a higher incidence of sesame allergy.