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Beer, Cider, and Wine Allergy
Rhea A Bansal1, Susan Tadros2, Amolak S Bansal2
1Immunology Department, St Helier Hospital, Wrythe Lane, Carshalton, Surrey SM5 1AA, UK.
Case Reports in Immunology
|April 12, 2017
Summary
Yeast allergy is a rare cause of reactions to beer, wine, and cider. This case highlights the importance of considering yeast and mold sensitivities in patients with unexplained food and beverage allergies.
Area of Science:
- Clinical Immunology
- Food Allergy Research
- Microbiology
Background:
- Common beer and wine allergies stem from barley or grape proteins.
- Lipid transfer proteins are another known allergen in beer.
- This study explores a rare case involving yeast and mold allergies.
Observation:
- Patient experienced itching, wheezing, and urticaria after consuming beer, wine, and cider.
- Specific IgE testing confirmed allergies to yeast and related food products.
- Co-existing sensitivities to yeast extracts and blue cheese were identified.
Findings:
- IgE reactivity to yeasts and molds was the primary cause of the patient's allergies.
- The patient's symptoms were triggered by alcoholic beverages and yeast-containing foods.
- Diagnosis was confirmed through specific IgE testing.
Implications:
- Yeast allergy is underdiagnosed and should be considered in allergic reactions to alcoholic drinks.
- Patients with yeast allergy require avoidance of specific yeasts in foods and beverages.
- Management includes antihistamines and epinephrine autoinjectors for severe reactions.
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