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[Sarrazin allergy: a contribution to buckwheat allergy]
F Schumacher1, P Schmid, B Wüthrich
1Allergiestation der Dermatologischen Klinik, Universitätsspital Zürich.
Summary
Buckwheat allergy, common in Asia, presents rare but significant allergic reactions in Switzerland. This study details six cases of urticaria, angioedema, and asthma linked to buckwheat exposure.
Area of Science:
- Allergy and Immunology
- Food Science
- Occupational Health
Background:
- Buckwheat is a common food staple and material in Asian countries, leading to frequent buckwheat allergies.
- Buckwheat-induced allergic reactions are rare in Switzerland, typically associated with dietary intake of buckwheat products like pizoccheri and bread.
Observation:
- Six cases of buckwheat allergy were documented, manifesting as urticaria, angioedema, and asthma.
- Four patients experienced reactions upon ingesting buckwheat, while two individuals developed allergies from occupational inhalation exposure.
- All participants showed positive results in skin prick tests and specific IgE (RAST) tests, confirming buckwheat sensitization.
Findings:
- Buckwheat allergy can manifest through both ingestion and inhalation routes.
- Clinical presentations include dermatological (urticaria, angioedema) and respiratory (asthma) symptoms.
- Immunological confirmation via skin tests and specific IgE is crucial for diagnosis.
Implications:
- Highlights the potential for buckwheat allergy even in regions where it is less common.
- Emphasizes the need for awareness among healthcare providers regarding diverse exposure routes and clinical manifestations.
- Underscores the importance of strict allergen avoidance for managing buckwheat allergy effectively.