Spice allergy reviewed

Monday, 12 September 2011 12:14

A review of the incidence and impact of spice allergy has found low rates of this allergy reportedly affecting between 4 and 13 of 10,000 adults, although this is thought to be an underestimation of the real prevalence. No figures were available on children.

The review authors believe that because of the common use of spice blends, often with inconsistent components, identifying the particular offending component is difficult and there is a need for reliable skin testing extracts and serum specific IgE assays. Strict avoidance is required in the management of spice allergy. However, this is likely to be difficult because of the non-specific labeling of spices.

Reference: Chen & Bahna. 2011. Annals of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology. Vol 107(3) pp. 191-9.