Association between pollen hypersensitivity and edible vegetable allergy: a review

Area of Science:

• Allergy and Immunology
• Clinical Medicine
• Food Science

Background:

• Numerous studies over three decades have documented associations between pollen allergies (pollinosis) and hypersensitivity to various edible vegetables.
• Specific examples include ragweed with Cucurbitaceae and banana, birch with nuts and fruits, mugwort with celery and spices, and grass with fruits and legumes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review and synthesize the existing literature on the association between pollinosis and edible vegetable sensitization.
• To explore the underlying mechanisms and identified allergens responsible for these cross-reactive hypersensitivities.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of studies investigating pollen-food syndromes.
• Analysis of reported associations between specific pollens and food sensitivities.
• Identification of proposed mechanisms and known cross-reactive allergens.

Main Results:

• Established associations include ragweed-Cucurbitaceae, birch-hazelnut/apple, mugwort-celery/spices, grass-tomato/fruits, and plantain-melon.
• Hypotheses for cross-reactivity involve lectins, IgE to cross-reactive carbohydrate determinants (CCDs), and shared allergenic proteins.
• Three key allergens identified: profilin, Bet v 1, and a 60-69 kd allergen.

Conclusions:

• The association between pollinosis and vegetable sensitization is a well-recognized phenomenon with multiple contributing factors.
• Further research into these associated sensitizations and common allergens is crucial for enhancing diagnostic accuracy and therapeutic strategies.