Systemic allergic reaction and diarrhoea after pineapple ingestion

Area of Science:

• Clinical Medicine
• Allergology
• Immunology

Background:

• Food allergies are a growing public health concern.
• Anaphylaxis from various food sources like nuts and fruits has been previously documented.
• The potential for pineapple to induce allergic reactions requires further investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the clinical and laboratory features of patients experiencing adverse reactions after pineapple ingestion.
• To identify the characteristic symptoms and severity of pineapple-induced anaphylactoid reactions.
• To evaluate the treatment and recovery patterns in affected individuals.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective case series analysis of 32 patients presenting with symptoms post-pineapple consumption.
• Clinical examination to assess symptoms such as rash, abdominal pain, and signs of shock.
• Laboratory investigations including total eosinophil count and serum IgE levels.
• Review of patient treatment protocols and outcomes.

Main Results:

• 32 patients (17 males, 15 females; age 5-70) reported symptoms within 30 minutes of eating pineapple.
• Common symptoms included intense itching, urticarial rashes, abdominal pain, vomiting, and diarrhea.
• 20 patients presented with shock, characterized by low or absent peripheral pulse and blood pressure, suggesting anaphylactoid reactions.
• Elevated median total eosinophil count (1850/mm3) and raised serum IgE levels in some patients were observed.

Conclusions:

• Pineapple ingestion can occasionally lead to significant anaphylactoid reactions.
• Prompt medical intervention with fluids, antihistamines, steroids, and adrenaline is crucial for recovery.
• Further research into the immunological mechanisms of pineapple allergy is warranted.