Dictionary of Allergies .. Avocado [Persea gratissima] (alligator pear, prickly pear)

Avocado [Persea gratissima] (alligator pear, prickly pear).

Avocado is a tree fruit of the Family Lauraceae which includs also  camphor, sassafras, and cinamon. It is native to the lowlands of tropical America [1]. Avocado induces allergic symptoms to some sensitized individuals (eczema).

Crossreactivity with pollen and other fruits and vegetables has been studied[2]. In many clinical investigations cross-reactions between  latex and tropical fruits-especially avocado, banana, and kiwi-are indicated; in contrast, there is little molecular information on the allergens causing these cross-reactions. Almost half of patients allergic to natural rubber latex show an associated fruit allergy: avocado, banana, kiwi, chestnut. IgE-mediated reactions and cntact allergy to avoxcado oil as an igridient in sunscreen lotions have been reported.Avocado is sybolised in RAST as f96.

References

1. Hoffman, D. et al:Specific IgE antibodies in atopic eczema. J. Allergy Clin. Immunol;1975;71:407-411.

2. Möller M, et al : Determination and characterization of cross-reacting allergens in latex, avocado, banana, and kiwi fruit. Allergy 1988:289

3. Bayrou O. Latex allergy. Rev Prat. 2006 Feb 15;56(3):289-95.