Avocado Allergy IgE Blood Test
The avocado allergy blood test measures the amount of allergen-specific IgE antibodies in the blood in order to detect an allergy to avocado.
Description
Avocado is becoming more and more popular, meaning that more people include it in their daily recipes. The risk of developing an allergy is increased by greater exposure to any food or substance. It may not be as widespread as peanut or shellfish allergies, but an individual can have an allergy to avocado just the same.
There are two types of avocado allergy. First is an oral allergy caused by oral allergy syndrome. If an individual has an allergy to birch pollen, it is highly possible to have an oral allergy to avocados. Fruits and vegetables growing close to pollen can cause an allergic reaction in individuals sensitive to pollen.
The second allergy is due to cross-reactivity with latex, otherwise known as latex-fruit syndrome. An individual with a latex allergy is more likely to also react to avocados. This cross-reactivity means that both avocados and latex contain similar proteins.
Individuals that have a latex allergy may also be allergic to:
- Kiwis
- Papayas
- Bananas
- Chestnuts
An allergy to avocado triggers a reaction in an individual's immune-system. The body views certain substances as toxic and produces IgE antibodies to these contaminants. These antibodies cause histamine to be released, which will cause the symptoms of an allergic reaction.
Allergy symptoms vary from one individual to the next ranging from mild to severe reactions.
Common symptoms of an oral allergy to avocados may include:
- Scratchy throat
- Itchy mouth
- Swelling in or around the mouth and throat
Common symptoms of latex-avocado allergy can include:
- Hives
- Stomach discomfort
- Itchy eyes
- Sneezing
- Swelling of the lips
- Anaphylactic response
