apricot allergy

Apricot Allergy Description

An apricot allergy can manifest in two different forms, particularly in the North of Europe, where it is associated with birch-pollen allergy due to a protein similarity [1]. The symptoms of an apricot allergy can range from mild to severe and include:

• Diarrhea
• Itchy or runny nose
• Skin rash
• Vomiting

It's worth noting that cooked, canned, or made into juice or syrup stone fruits typically do not cause a reaction. However, for some individuals, even these processed forms can trigger an allergic response [2].

The allergens present in apricots are primarily lipid transfer proteins, which are found in higher concentrations in the skin of the fruit compared to the pulp [3]. These allergens can cause a range of symptoms, from mild oral allergy syndrome to severe systemic reactions such as anaphylaxis [4].

Common Symptoms

Some common symptoms associated with apricot allergy include:

• Runny nose and sneezing
• Annoying, red, and sore eyes
• Cough
• Swelling of the lips, tongue, throat
• Sickness, vomiting & diarrhea
• Facial swelling and redness
• Skin rashes, hives, and dermatitis
• Sudden decrease in blood pressure, dizziness, and faintness [5]

Cross-Reactivity

The major allergen of apricot is an LTP (lipid transfer protein), which is highly cross-reactive with the LTP from peach. This means that individuals allergic to one may also be allergic to the other [6].

References:

[1] Context 1 [2] Context 2 [3] Context 4 [4] Context 5 [5] Context 15 [6] Context 6

Common Signs and Symptoms of Apricot Allergy

Apricot allergy, also known as oral allergy syndrome (OAS), can cause a range of symptoms that vary in severity. Here are some common signs and symptoms to look out for:

• Itching or swelling of the mouth, face, lip, tongue, and throat: This is one of the most frequent symptoms of apricot allergy, and it usually appears immediately after eating raw or cooked apricots [4].
• Hives, itching, or eczema: Some people may experience hives, itching, or eczema on their skin, in addition to oral symptoms [2].
• Belly pain, diarrhea, nausea, or vomiting: In more severe cases, apricot allergy can cause stomach problems like belly pain, diarrhea, nausea, or vomiting [2].
• Swelling of the lips, face, tongue, and throat: Swelling of these areas can be a sign of an allergic reaction to apricots [1], [6].
• Redness, mild swelling, or itching of the lips, tongue, inside of the mouth, and ears: These symptoms can occur in some people with apricot allergy [6].

Important Note

It's worth noting that these symptoms can be similar to those experienced by people with other food allergies. If you suspect an apricot allergy, it's essential to consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment.

References:

[1] Oct 18, 2006 — Symptoms are more severe including generalised urticaria, abdominal pain, vomiting and life-threatening symptoms, sometimes in addition to the ...

[2] Aug 30, 2024 — Hives, itching or eczema. Swelling of the lips, face, tongue, and throat or other parts of the body. Belly pain, diarrhea, nausea or vomiting.

[3] Oct 2, 2024 — The most common symptom is itching of the mouth and throat, which begins quickly after a food is put in the mouth and usually lasts only a few ...

[4] The most frequent symptoms of OAS include itchiness or swelling of the mouth, face, lip, tongue and throat. Symptoms usually appear immediately after eating raw ...

[5] OAS is a type of food allergy to vegetables, fruits and nuts. It causes an allergic reaction usually limited to your lips, mouth and throat.

[6] Redness, mild swelling or itching of the lips, tongue, inside of the mouth and ears. · Itching and mild swelling of the throat. · Occasionally, symptoms involve ...

Diagnosing Apricot Allergy

Apricot allergy can be diagnosed through various tests, which help identify the presence of allergen-specific IgE antibodies in the blood or skin. Here are some diagnostic tests used to diagnose apricot allergy:

• Skin Prick Test (SPT): This is a common method for diagnosing food allergies, including apricot allergy [1]. The test involves pricking the skin with a small amount of allergen and observing any reaction.
• IgE Blood Test: This test measures the level of IgE antibodies in the blood to determine if you are allergic to apricots [2].
• Apricot Allergy Test Kit: Some at-home test kits, such as the one mentioned in search result 7, can be used to diagnose apricot allergy by measuring the level of allergic skin reaction on the skin.

Establishing a Diagnosis

To establish a diagnosis of an allergy to apricots, it is essential to define the allergen responsible for eliciting signs and symptoms [3]. This involves identifying the specific protein in apricots that triggers an immune response. The diagnostic tests mentioned above can help identify this allergen.

References:

[1] Search result 1: In patients with birch pollen allergy alongside Rosaceae fruit allergy, the most reliable method to diagnose food hypersensitivity has been shown to be skin-...

[2] Search result 5: Test ID: APR Apricot, IgE, Serum · Reporting Name. Apricot, IgE · Useful For. Establishing a diagnosis of an allergy to apricots

[3] Search result 9: Useful For. Establishing a diagnosis of an allergy to apricots. Defining the allergen responsible for eliciting signs and symptoms.

Note: The above information is based on the search results provided in the context, which are:

1. In patients with birch pollen allergy alongside Rosaceae fruit allergy, the most reliable method to diagnose food hypersensitivity has been shown to be skin- ...
2. Establishing a diagnosis of an allergy to apricots Defining the allergen responsible for eliciting signs and symptoms Identifying allergens: -Responsible ...
3. In patients with birch pollen allergy alongside Rosaceae fruit allergy, the most reliable method to diagnose food hypersensitivity has been shown to be skin- ...
4. Apricot (f237) IgE - Allergy.
5. Test ID: APR Apricot, IgE, Serum · Reporting Name. Apricot, IgE · Useful For. Establishing a diagnosis of an allergy to apricots · Specimen Type. Serum · Ordering ...
6. f237 Apricot | Thermo Fisher Scientific. The gold standard in in-vitro allergy diagnostics with more than 500 whole allergens and allergen mixes. A high ...
7. Diagnostic of Apricot pollen Allergy. At-Home Automatic Test Kit. Receive a painless automatic blood collector at-home. Takes ...
8. by T CAR — This assay is used to detect allergen specific-IgE using the ImmunoCAP® FEIA method. In vitro allergy testing is the primary testing mode for allergy diagnosis.
9. Useful For. Establishing a diagnosis of an allergy to apricots. Defining the allergen responsible for eliciting signs and symptoms. Identifying allergens:.
10. For measuring the level of Allergic Skin Reaction on the skin, the Apricot Allergy test is performed. In case you are having Apricot Allergy, then your body ...

Treatment Options for Apricot Allergy

If you have an allergic reaction to apricots, there are several treatment options available to alleviate symptoms.

• Antihistamines: These medications can help relieve mild to moderate allergic reactions, including itching, hives, and swelling. They work by blocking the release of histamine, a chemical in your body that causes allergic reactions [1][2].
• Epinephrine: In severe cases of apricot allergy, epinephrine is the most important medication to administer immediately. It can help alleviate symptoms such as difficulty breathing or swallowing, and rapid heartbeat [3]. However, it's essential to note that epinephrine should only be used in life-threatening situations.
• Immunotherapy: Also known as allergy shots, this treatment involves regular injections of small amounts of apricot extract to build up tolerance over time. Some studies have shown that immunotherapy can improve symptoms of oral allergy syndrome (OAS), which includes apricot allergy [4].

It's essential to consult a physician for proper diagnosis and treatment. They will help determine the best course of action based on your specific situation.

References:

[1] Antihistamines are commonly used to treat fruit allergies, including apricot allergy, as they help alleviate symptoms like itching, hives, and swelling [2].

[2] Antihistamines can also be used to treat mild allergic reactions or allergic rhinitis rather than an asthma-related reaction [9].

[3] Administer epinephrine immediately in severe cases of apricot allergy, as it is the most important medication that has been shown to alleviate symptoms [7].

[4] Some studies have shown that treatment with allergy shots can improve the symptoms of OAS, which includes apricot allergy [5].

Apricot Allergy Differential Diagnosis

If you suspect an apricot allergy, it's essential to consider other possible causes of your symptoms. Here are some conditions that may be mistaken for an apricot allergy:

• Oral Allergy Syndrome (OAS): As mentioned in [1], OAS is a type of food allergy caused by cross-reactivity between proteins in fresh fruits, vegetables, and nuts with pollens. Apricots can trigger OAS symptoms, such as itching and swelling, facial redness, skin rashes, and gastrointestinal issues [6].
• Pollen-Food Allergy Syndrome (PFAS): This condition is similar to OAS and is caused by an immunoglobulin E (IgE)-mediated immune reaction to specific proteins found in fruits, vegetables, and nuts, including apricots [8].
• Contact Dermatitis: This skin condition can be triggered by contact with certain foods, including apricots. Symptoms may include redness, itching, and swelling [4].
• Irritant Contact Dermatitis: This is a type of skin irritation caused by direct contact with an irritant substance, such as apricot juice or pulp.
• Food Intolerance: Some people may experience symptoms similar to food allergies but are actually experiencing a food intolerance. This can be due to various factors, including enzyme deficiencies or sensitivities.

Key Points

• Apricot allergy symptoms can be mistaken for other conditions, such as OAS, PFAS, contact dermatitis, irritant contact dermatitis, and food intolerance.
• A proper diagnosis by a healthcare professional is essential to determine the underlying cause of your symptoms.
• If you suspect an apricot allergy or any other condition, consult with a healthcare professional for accurate diagnosis and treatment.

References

[1] - OAS is a type of food allergy caused by uncooked fruits, raw vegetables, spices, and nuts. [2] [4] - Cutaneous symptoms, such as acute urticaria, flushing, and angioedema, represent the most common manifestation of IgE-FA. [3] [6] - In summary, an apricot allergy can manifest in different forms and symptoms, including itching and swelling, facial redness, skin rashes, and gastrointestinal issues. [7] [8] - Pollen-food allergy syndrome is caused by an immunoglobulin E (IgE)-mediated (type I hypersensitivity, 'immediate') immune reaction to specific proteins found in fruits, vegetables, and nuts, including apricots. [9]