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Recurrent Anaphylaxis with Watermelon and Pumpkin Seeds in a Boy Tolerant to Their Pulps
Tugba Guler1, Ilknur Kulhas Celik1, Meltem Comert1
1Division of Immunology and Allergy, Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Selçuk University, Konya, Turkey.
Abstract:
Seeds are widely consumed as a traditional snack and have rich contents beneficial to health. With an increase in consumption rates, allergic reactions occur more frequently. We focus on multiple seed consumption related to recurrent anaphylaxis in this case. We evaluated an 11-year-old boy with recurrent anaphylaxis. According to his medical records, he had been hospitalized several times, diagnosed with anaphylaxis, and treated. The family noticed direct (eating) or indirect contact with pumpkin seeds. In addition, the family mentioned another anaphylactic episode after watermelon seed and poppy seed bread consumption. We conducted skin prick-to-prick tests, examined total immunoglobulin E levels, and prescribed the treatment with an adrenalin autoinjector and preventive dietary recommendations. Anaphylaxis, particularly recurrent ones, should be evaluated with detailed anamnesis and supported with laboratory tests. Although seeds are beneficial and highly nutritious, it is necessary to consider them a source of allergens.
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