An update on oral anaphylaxis from mite ingestion.
OBJECTIVE
To review systemic reactions due to the oral ingestion of mites.


METHODS
We performed a MEDLINE search of peer-reviewed research articles published between 1993 and 2004 relevant to the subject of anaphylactic reactions to mite-contaminated foods.


METHODS
Recent studies that emphasized the potentially life-threatening nature of anaphylactic reactions, responsible foodstuffs and mites, populations at risk, and pathogenesis were selected for inclusion in this review.


RESULTS
Although relatively few new cases of oral mite anaphylaxis are reported in the literature, we speculate that this clinical condition is occurring more frequently than realized in many geographic locations, and only the suspicion of an informed physician can contribute to its diagnosis and prevention. Oral anaphylaxis from mite-contaminated foods may be lethal if not promptly recognized and treated, and some preventive measures may be helpful for individuals at risk. Frequent cross-reactions among domestic, storage, and phytophagous mites explain the increased risk of oral mite anaphylaxis in sensitive patients living in both urban and rural areas. The enzymatic activity of some mite allergens contributes to the pathogenesis of this syndrome by means of mucosal damage and enhanced allergen absorption through the oral route.


CONCLUSIONS
Oral mite anaphylaxis is a severe, potentially lethal allergic condition that occurs in many countries and is frequently undiagnosed. Early recognition may lead to the implementation of simple prophylactic measures in at-risk populations of allergic patients.
Sánchez-Borges
Mario
M
Clínica El Avila, Caracas, Venezuela. malsan@cantv.net
Suárez-Chacón
Raúl
R
Capriles-Hulett
Arnaldo
A
Caballero-Fonseca
Fernan
F
D000485:Allergens / Q000276:immunology; D000707:Anaphylaxis / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000382:microbiology* / Q000503:physiopathology; D000818:Animals; D005506:Food Contamination; D006801:Humans; D008924:Mite Infestations / Q000276:immunology; D008925:Mites / Q000276:immunology*
D000485:Allergens