Occupational sensitization to Plasmopara viticola

Area of Science:

• Mycology
• Allergology
• Plant Pathology

Background:

• Oomycetes are increasingly recognized for their allergologic significance.
• Diagnostic probes for Oomycetes sensitization are not widely available.
• Atopic syndromes can be triggered by environmental fungal exposures.

Observation:

• A greenhouse worker with atopic syndrome was exposed to various fungi and plants.
• Sensitization to Plasmopara viticola, a grapevine pseudo mildew, was suspected.
• The patient handled pure cultures of defined fungi and plants.

Findings:

• Skin prick tests and histamine release tests showed positive reactions to Plasmopara viticola extract.
• Specific IgE antibodies against Plasmopara viticola were confirmed using binding tests, Western blot, and isoelectric focusing immunoblot.
• This case provides evidence of human sensitization to Oomycetes, specifically Plasmopara viticola.

Implications:

• Highlights the potential for Oomycetes, like Plasmopara viticola, to act as allergens.
• Suggests the need for developing diagnostic tools for Oomycetes-related allergies.
• Emphasizes occupational allergy risks in agricultural and horticultural settings.