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Immediate and delayed contact hypersensitivity to verbena plants
P C Potter1, S Mather, P Lockey
1Allergology Unit Department of Clinical Science and Immunology, University of Cape Town.
Contact Dermatitis
|November 1, 1995
Summary
Allergic reactions to Verbena plants can cause contact dermatitis. Researchers identified a specific 62000 Dalton allergen in Verbena hybrida responsible for IgE-mediated hypersensitivity.
Area of Science:
- Allergen identification
- Dermatology
- Immunology
Background:
- The Verbenaceae family, including Verbena species, is suspected of causing contact dermatitis.
- Allergic reactions to plants can manifest as immediate or delayed hypersensitivity.
Observation:
- Two cases of allergic reactions to Verbena plants are presented.
- A teenage boy experienced anaphylaxis from Verbena hybrida leaves.
- A female gardener developed contact dermatitis from Verbena elegans 'Cleopatra'.
Findings:
- Specific IgE response to Verbena hybrida was characterized, identifying a 62000 Dalton allergen.
- This is the first report of IgE-mediated immediate contact hypersensitivity to Verbena hybrida.
- Positive prick tests indicated an allergic nature for reactions to Verbena elegans.
Implications:
- Identifies a specific allergen in Verbena hybrida responsible for allergic reactions.
- Highlights the potential for both immediate and delayed allergic contact dermatitis from Verbena species.
- Informs gardeners and healthcare professionals about potential plant-induced allergies.