Oral allergy syndrome

Oral Allergy Syndrome (OAS), also known as Pollen-Food Allergy Syndrome, is a type of food allergy characterized by a cluster of allergic reactions in the mouth in response to eating certain (usually fresh) fruits, nuts, and vegetables that typically develops in adults with hay fever.

Symptoms

The symptoms of Oral Allergy Syndrome are confined to the mouth, lips, tongue, and throat. The most common symptoms include itching or inflammation of the mouth, lips, tongue, throat, and ears immediately after eating certain fresh fruits, vegetables, or certain kinds of nuts. In rare cases, reactions can be life-threatening and can progress to anaphylaxis, a severe allergic reaction.

Causes

Oral Allergy Syndrome is an example of a Class 2 food allergy. It occurs in people who are already allergic to pollen and it is the immune system's response to proteins in certain fruits, vegetables, and nuts that are similar to those in pollen. These proteins can confuse the immune system and cause an allergic reaction or make existing symptoms worse.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of Oral Allergy Syndrome is usually made by an allergist based on the patient's history of reactions to certain foods. Skin prick testing or blood tests for specific IgE antibodies can confirm the diagnosis.

Treatment

The primary treatment for Oral Allergy Syndrome is avoidance of trigger foods. Cooking or peeling the food may allow it to be eaten without a reaction. In some cases, desensitization to the food through oral immunotherapy may be recommended.

See also

• Food allergy
• Anaphylaxis
• Hay fever
• Allergist
• Immunotherapy

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