BACKGROUND: Banana fruit has been recognized as an important food allergen source. Nowadays banana hypersensitivity had been reported more frequently with various presentations from oral allergy syndrome to anaphylaxis.OBJECTIVE: This study aims to describe the pattern of banana hypersensitivity and the sensitivity of diagnostic test.METHODS: Six patients who experienced banana hypersensitivity were recruited from adult allergy clinic, Ramathibodi Hospital, Mahidol University between 2015–2018. Demographic data, pattern of banana allergy consisted of the onset of reaction, symptoms, severity, cross-reactivity to kiwi, avocado, latex including type and amount of banana were collected. Skin test, serum specific IgE to banana and open-label food challenge test had been applied.RESULTS: All patients experienced multiple episodes of banana anaphylaxis. Regarding the diagnostic investigation, prick-to-prick skin test had higher sensitivity (sensitivity, 100%; 95% confidence interval [CI], 54.07%–100%) than the commercial banana extract (sensitivity, 83.33%; 95% CI, 35.88%–99.58%) and serum specific IgE to banana (sensitivity, 50%; 95% CI, 11.81%–88.19%). The discordance between skin prick test using commercial banana extract and skin test was reported. The cross-reactivity between the species of banana, kiwi, the avocado was documented in all patients. Latex skin prick test and application test were applied with negative results. From the oral food challenge test, a case of banana anaphylaxis patient can tolerate heated banana.CONCLUSION: The various phenotypes of banana hypersensitivity were identified. The prick-to-prick test showed the highest sensitivity for diagnosis of banana allergy. However, component resolved diagnostics might be needed for conclusive diagnosis.
Adult ; Anaphylaxis ; Diagnosis ; Diagnostic Tests, Routine ; Food Hypersensitivity ; Fruit ; Hot Temperature ; Humans ; Hypersensitivity ; Hypersensitivity, Immediate ; Immunoglobulin E ; Latex ; Musa ; Persea ; Phenotype ; Skin ; Skin Tests ; Thailand

Hypersensitivity to cholecalciferol (vitamin D3) or its active metabolite, calcitriol, is an exceedingly rare clinical phenomenon, with only 2 previously reported cases of suspected immediate hypersensitivity. Diagnosis of delayed drug hypersensitivity reactions is inherently difficult due to the lack of any robust in vitro diagnostic assay, particularly in those patients for whom provocation testing confers an unacceptable risk. In these situations, diagnosis relies on reproducible clinical manifestations following administration of the culprit agent, resolution upon its withdrawal and exclusion of other potential differential diagnoses. Based on these criteria, we propose the first reported case of delayed hypersensitivity to cholecalciferol successfully managed with a desensitisation protocol to pure cholecalciferol.
Calcitriol ; Cholecalciferol ; Diagnosis ; Diagnosis, Differential ; Drug Hypersensitivity ; Humans ; Hypersensitivity ; Hypersensitivity, Delayed ; Hypersensitivity, Immediate ; In Vitro Techniques

PURPOSE: Cefaclor, a second-generation oral cephalosporin, is known to cause IgE-mediated hypersensitivity. Assays of serum-specific IgE (sIgE) to cefaclor are commercially available via the ImmunoCAP system (Thermo Fisher Scientific). While serum levels of sIgE >0.35 kU/L are considered indicative of an allergy, some patients with cefaclor allergy show low serum IgE levels. This study aimed to evaluate the proper cut-off levels of sIgE in the diagnosis of immediate hypersensitivity to cefaclor. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A total of 269 patients with drug allergy history, who underwent assays of sIgE to cefaclor at Ajou University hospital and Dong-A University Hospital, were reviewed retrospectively. Among them, 193 patients exhibited cefaclor-induced immediate hypersensitivity with certain or probable causality of an adverse drug reaction according to the WHO-UMC (the World Health Organization-the Uppsala Monitoring Centre) algorithm, and 76 controls showed delayed hypersensitivity reactions to non-antibiotics. RESULTS: In total, 126 of the 193 patients (65.3%) experienced anaphylaxis; they had higher serum sIgE levels than patients with immediate hypersensitivity who did not experience anaphylaxis (6.36±12.39 kU/L vs. 4.28±13.61 kU/L, p < 0.001). The best cut-off value for cefaclor-induced immediate hypersensitivity was 0.11 kU/L, with sensitivity of 80.2% and specificity of 81.6%. A cut-off value of 0.44 kU/L showed the best sensitivity (75.4%) and specificity (65.7%) for differentiating anaphylaxis from immediate hypersensitivity reactions. CONCLUSION: Patients with cefaclor anaphylaxis exhibit high serum IgE levels. A cut-off value of 0.11 kU/L of sIgE to cefaclor is proper for identifying patients with cefaclor allergy, and 0.44 kU/L may be useful to detect anaphylaxis.
Anaphylaxis ; Cefaclor* ; Diagnosis ; Drug Hypersensitivity ; Drug-Related Side Effects and Adverse Reactions ; Global Health ; Humans ; Hypersensitivity* ; Hypersensitivity, Delayed ; Hypersensitivity, Immediate ; Immunoglobulin E* ; Retrospective Studies ; Sensitivity and Specificity

Although formaldehyde is well known to cause type 4 hypersensitivity, immunoglobulin E (IgE)-mediated hypersensitivity to formaldehyde is rare. Here, we report a case of recurrent generalized urticaria after endodontic treatment using a para-formaldehyde (PFA)-containing root canal sealant and present a review of previous studies describing cases of immediate hypersensitivity reactions to formaldehyde. A 50-year-old man visited our allergy clinic for recurrent generalized urticaria several hours after endodontic treatment. Prick tests to latex, lidocaine, and formaldehyde showed negative reactions. However, swelling and redness at the prick site continued for several days. The level of formaldehyde-specific IgE was high (class 4). Thus, the patient was deemed to have experienced an IgE-mediated hypersensitivity reaction caused by the PFA used in the root canal disinfectant. Accordingly, we suggest that physicians should pay attention to type I hypersensitivity reactions to root canal disinfectants, even if the symptoms occur several hours after exposure.
Disinfectants/*adverse effects ; Formaldehyde/*adverse effects ; Humans ; Hypersensitivity, Immediate/*chemically induced ; Immunoglobulin E/*immunology ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Recurrence ; Skin Tests ; Time Factors ; Urticaria/*chemically induced/diagnosis ; Zinc Oxide-Eugenol Cement/*chemistry

BACKGROUND: Allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis (ABPA) in children with asthma, not associated with cystic fibrosis, is yet to receive the recognition it deserves. OBJECTIVE: To highlight the presentation of ABPA in children with asthma. METHODS: This retrospective review documents the occurrence of pediatric ABPA over a period of 31 years in one unit. Children with asthma, eosinophilia and infiltrates on chest radiograph were screened for ABPA. In these patients, demonstration of immediate hypersensitivity response against Aspergillus species along with serological profile and pulmonary function testing were done. Bronchography/computed tomography (CT) of the chest demonstrated central bronchiectasis (CB). CT of the paranasal sinuses was done in patients with upper airways symptoms. In those suspected with allergic Aspergillus sinusitis (AAS) consent was sought from the parents for the invasive procedure needed for the diagnosis of AAS. RESULTS: Of the 349 patients with ABPA diagnosed, 42 (12.03%) were in the pediatric age group. The mean age on presentation was 12.9 ± 4 years with a male preponderance. All patients had asthma and positive intradermal/skin prick test against Aspergillus species. Ring shadows, the most common radiological presentation, were seen in 28 of 42 patients. Bronchography/CT of the chest demonstrated CB, a feature pathognomic of ABPA, in 32 of 42 patients. High attenuation mucus plugs was observed in 7 of 36 patients while ABPA-seropositive was diagnosed in 10 of 42 patients. On imaging, sinusitis was seen in 20 of 30 patients with upper airways symptoms of whom eight had suspected AAS. Three parents consented for surgery, which confirmed the diagnosis. CONCLUSION: This study highlights the need to evaluate asthmatic children for ABPA as also to exclude AAS.
Aspergillosis, Allergic Bronchopulmonary ; Aspergillus ; Asthma ; Bronchiectasis ; Child ; Cystic Fibrosis ; Diagnosis ; Eosinophilia ; Humans ; Hypersensitivity, Immediate ; Male ; Mucus ; Paranasal Sinuses ; Parents ; Radiography, Thoracic ; Respiratory Function Tests ; Retrospective Studies ; Sinusitis ; Thorax

Immediate-type hypersensitivity responses to systemic corticosteroids are rare despite their widespread use. It is still controversial whether the responses rarely occur or are underdiagnosed in clinical settings. Many cases probably remain underdiagnosed because the symptoms often mimic symptoms of underlying diseases. This case report describes a 73-year-old man who had immediate hypersensitivity reactions after intravenous administration of hydrocortisone, which was primarily intended to prevent hypersensitivity reactions to contrast media. Whole body rash with pruritus developed shortly after the steroid injection. Since the patient already experienced rash and itching sense after contrast media and antihistamine injection, we conducted skin testing to figure out which drug triggered the hypersensitivity reactions. Intradermal skin tests revealed a positive response to hydrocortisone sodium succinate, which suggested his hypersensitivity reactions were developed by hydrocortisone. Being a common therapy for allergic reaction, corticosteroids themselves are rarely suspected of causing hypersensitivity reactions. Considering there is no typical symptom or standard diagnostic test, awareness of corticosteroid hypersensitivity reactions is of importance to make the diagnosis.
Administration, Intravenous ; Adrenal Cortex Hormones ; Aged ; Contrast Media ; Diagnosis ; Diagnostic Tests, Routine ; Drug Hypersensitivity ; Exanthema ; Humans ; Hydrocortisone* ; Hypersensitivity* ; Hypersensitivity, Immediate ; Intradermal Tests ; Pruritus ; Skin Tests ; Sodium* ; Succinic Acid*

Allergic rhinitis (AR) clinically expressed by sneezing, rhinorrhea, nasal itching and congestion is an allergen-driven mucosal inflammatory disease which is modulated by immunoglobulin E. Epidemiological studies have indicated that prevalence of AR continues to increase, and it has been a worldwide health problem that places a significant healthcare burden on individuals and society. Given the evolving understanding of the process by which an allergen is recognized and the roles of mediators which account for AR progress, the pathogenesis of AR has become clearer. Current studies have demonstrated local allergic rhinitis (LAR) that patients with both sug- gestive symptoms of AR and a negative diagnostic test for atopy may have local allergic inflammation is a prevalent entity in patients evaluated with rhinitis, but further research remains needed. Management of AR includes aller- gen avoidance, pharmacological treatment and allergen-specific immunotherapy. Recently montelukast has exhibited previously undocumented anti-inflammatory properties, leukotriene receptor antagonists therefore may serve a more important role in the treatment of AR. Not only has immunotherapy proved its efficacy, but also been able to alter disease course and thereby mitigate progression to asthma. Thus immunotherapy can be initiated while receiving pharmacotherapy, especially in children with AR. As clinical guidelines, the ARIA (Allergic Rhinitis and its Impact on Asthma) provides basic principles of effective treatment of AR. Besides, choosing an appropriate treatment strategy should be based on the severity and chronicity of patient's symptom. The aim of this review was to provide an update mainly on the pathophysiology, epidemiology, and management of AR.
Acetates ; therapeutic use ; Allergens ; Anti-Inflammatory Agents ; therapeutic use ; Asthma ; prevention & control ; Child ; Humans ; Hypersensitivity, Immediate ; diagnosis ; physiopathology ; Immunoglobulin E ; immunology ; Immunotherapy ; Inflammation ; physiopathology ; Leukotriene Antagonists ; therapeutic use ; Prevalence ; Quinolines ; therapeutic use ; Rhinitis, Allergic ; diagnosis ; immunology ; physiopathology

Chlorpheniramine is a widely prescribed H1-antihistamine for relieving urticaria or histamine-mediated allergic reactions. However, although rare, it may cause immediate hypersensitivity reactions. The diagnosis is usually made by provocation test, but its application is often limited due to comorbidities or potential risk of severe reactions. In those cases, skin tests and basophil activation tests can be considered as additional diagnostic tests for the drug allergy. Here, we report a 33-year-old female with underlying chronic urticaria, who recurrently developed anaphylaxis after chlorpheniramine administration. Intradermal test showed positive responses in the patient at 0.02 mg/mL of chlorpheniramine, but not in healthy controls. Basophil activation test showed significant up-regulation of CD63 and CD203c by chlorpheniramine. The present case reminds the rare but potential allergic risk of chlorpheniramine, and also suggests the potential utility of basophil activation test in making the diagnosis.
Adult ; Anaphylaxis ; Basophils ; Chlorpheniramine ; Comorbidity ; Diagnosis ; Diagnostic Tests, Routine ; Drug Hypersensitivity ; Female ; Humans ; Hypersensitivity ; Hypersensitivity, Immediate ; Intradermal Tests ; Skin Tests ; Up-Regulation ; Urticaria

Currently, the increasing numbers of vaccine administrations are associated with increased reports of adverse vaccine reactions. Whilst the general adverse reactions including allergic reactions caused by the vaccine itself or the vaccine components, are rare, they can in some circumstances be serious and even fatal. In accordance with many IgE-mediated reactions and immediate-type allergic reactions, the primary allergens are proteins. The proteins most often implicated in vaccine allergies are egg and gelatin, with perhaps rare reactions to yeast or latex. Numerous studies have demonstrated that the injectable influenza vaccine can be safely administered, although with appropriate precautions, to patients with severe egg allergy, as the current influenza vaccines contain small trace amounts of egg protein. If an allergy is suspected, an accurate examination followed by algorithms is vital for correct diagnosis, treatment and decision regarding re-vaccination in patients with immediate-type reactions to vaccines. Facilities and health care professionals should be available to treat immediate hypersensitivity reactions (anaphylaxis) in all settings where vaccines are administered.
Allergens ; Anaphylaxis ; Delivery of Health Care ; Diagnosis ; Egg Hypersensitivity ; Gelatin ; Humans ; Hypersensitivity* ; Hypersensitivity, Immediate ; Influenza Vaccines ; Influenza, Human ; Latex ; Ovum ; Vaccines ; Yeasts

PURPOSE: Cefaclor is widely prescribed for various infectious diseases. As its consumption increases, the number of hypersensitivity reactions to cefaclor has increased. This study aimed to evaluate the immunologic findings of immediate hypersensitivity to cefaclor. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We enrolled 47 patients with immediate hypersensitivity to cefaclor from Ajou University Hospital and Asan Medical Center. Serum specific IgE, IgG1, and IgG4 antibodies to cefaclor-human serum albumin (HSA) conjugate were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). RESULTS: The most common phenotype was anaphylaxis (Group I, 78.7%), followed by urticaria (Group II, 21.3%). The detection of specific IgE, IgG1, and IgG4 to cefaclor-HSA conjugate by ELISA tended to be higher in Group I (40.5%, 41.7%, 21.6%) than in Group II (20.0%, 20.0%, 0%) with no statistical significance. Significant associations were found between specific IgE and IgG1 or IgG4 (p<0.001, p=0.019). ELISA inhibition tests showed significant inhibitions by both free cefaclor and cefaclor-HSA conjugate. For basophil activation tests in patients having no specific IgE antibody, the CD63 expression level on basophils increased with incubations of free cefaclor. CONCLUSION: The most common manifestation of immediate hypersensitivity to cefaclor was anaphylaxis, most of which was mediated by IgE; however, a non-IgE mediated direct basophil activation mechanism was suggested in a subset of anaphylaxis patients.
Adolescent ; Adult ; Aged ; Anaphylaxis/*chemically induced/immunology ; Anti-Bacterial Agents/adverse effects/*immunology ; Antigens, CD63 ; Basophils/metabolism ; Cefaclor/*adverse effects/immunology ; Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay ; Female ; Humans ; Hypersensitivity, Immediate/chemically induced/diagnosis/*immunology ; Immunoglobulin E/*blood ; Immunoglobulin G/immunology ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Retrospective Studies ; Skin Tests ; Urticaria/chemically induced/diagnosis/immunology ; Young Adult