Successful long-term immunotherapy for human seminal plasma anaphylaxis

Area of Science:

• Reproductive Immunology
• Allergy and Immunology

Background:

• Seminal plasma hypersensitivity is a rare condition.
• Hysterectomy can potentially alter immune responses.

Observation:

• A 46-year-old woman presented with anaphylactic reactions to her husband's seminal fluid six weeks after a hysterectomy.
• Skin tests and laboratory assays identified a specific fraction of seminal plasma responsible for the allergic reaction.

Findings:

• The patient showed positive skin tests to unfractionated seminal plasma and a specific Sephadex G100 fraction (Fraction 3).
• Fraction 3 induced histamine release from leukocytes and was passively transferable, indicating its allergenic potential.
• A desensitization protocol using Fraction 3 successfully rendered the patient tolerant to seminal fluid exposure.

Implications:

• This case demonstrates the successful application of targeted immunotherapy for seminal plasma hypersensitivity.
• Maintaining tolerance may require regular sexual activity, highlighting the dynamic nature of immune responses.