Anaphylactic reaction to camomile tea.
BACKGROUND
A type-IV-allergic reaction to German camomile (Matricaria chamomilla) in a form of allergic contact dermatitis is not unusual. However, only a few cases of anaphylactic reaction to camomile have been described in the literature.


METHODS
We present the case of a 38-year-old Caucasian man who developed an episode of severe anaphylaxis with generalized urticaria, angioedema and severe dyspnoea one hour after consuming camomile tea. Laboratory examination demonstrated a total serum IgE of 123 kU/l with specific IgE against camomile (4.94 kU/l, class 3). Skin prick test and labial provocation test with camomile showed a strong positive reaction.


CONCLUSIONS
Our case confirms the presence of a type-I allergy to orally ingested camomile and indicates that the incidence and risk may be underestimated. Additional response to mugwort and pollen-derived food allergens should be evaluated in patients sensitised to camomile due to a higher incidence of allergic cross-reactivity.
Andres
Christian
C
Department of Dermatology and Allergy, Technical University, Munich, Germany. christian.andres@lrz.tum.de
Chen
Wen Chieh
WC
Ollert
Markus
M
Mempel
Martin
M
Darsow
Ulf
U
Ring
Johannes
J
D000328:Adult; D000707:Anaphylaxis / Q000209:etiology*; D006801:Humans; D007073:Immunoglobulin E / Q000097:blood; D008297:Male; D031168:Matricaria / Q000276:immunology*
D007073:Immunoglobulin E