Anaphylaxis associated with the ingestion of Goji berries (Lycium barbarum).
Goji berry (wolfberry), a member of the Solanacea family, has been recently introduced in Western countries and its consumption has increased rapidly. The objectives of the study were to describe the cases of 2 patients who experienced allergic symptoms after Goji berry consumption, to identify the protein profile of the extract, to analyze the allergenic profile of individuals, and to determine cross-reactivity with other members of the Solanaceae family (tomato). We describe 2 cases of allergic reaction, 1 of which was an anaphylactic reaction, after Goji berry ingestion. A Goji berry extract was manufactured and immunochemically characterized. The patients were skin prick tested with a battery of common aeroallergens including mites, epithelia, and molds. Individuals were also skin prick tested with food allergens, including Goji berries. A positive skin prick test and specific immunoglobulin (Ig) E to Goji berry was detected in both cases. Serum samples recognized a 9-kDa band, probably related to lipid transfer proteins (LTPs). Cross-reactivity with tomato was analyzed by inhibition studies, which showed that the 9-kDa band was totally inhibited by the tomato extract. This study describes the first 2 cases of allergic reaction following Goji berry ingestion. LTPs seem to be involved in allergic sensitization to Goji berries, as evidenced by cross-reactivity with tomato.
Allergy Unit, Centro Cinco Villas, Casar de Salud, Ejea, Zaragoza, Spain.
S
S
Monzón Ballarín
M A
MA
López-Matas
D
D
Sáenz Abad
N
N
Pérez-Cinto
J
J
Carnés
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000707:Anaphylaxis / Q000209:etiology*; D002352:Carrier Proteins / Q000276:immunology; D003429:Cross Reactions; D005260:Female; D005512:Food Hypersensitivity / Q000209:etiology*; D006801:Humans; D032305:Lycium / Q000276:immunology*
D002352:Carrier Proteins; C030363:lipid transfer protein