Profilin desensitization in two patients with plant-derived food allergy

Int J Immunopathol Pharmacol. 2012 Apr-Jun;25(2):531-5. doi: 10.1177/039463201202500225.

Abstract

Profilins are "panallergens", responsible for many cross-reactivities between inhalant, latex and plant-derived food allergens. We evaluated the effectiveness and the safety of sublingual desensitization treatment (SLIT) in two patients with allergic respiratory and food diseases. Skin prick tests, IgE and IgG4 assays to pollens, some plant-derived foods, profilin, non-lipid specific transfer protein and PR 10 proteins were performed. The patients also underwent double-blind placebo-controlled challenge (DBPCFC) with the culprit foods and profilin and then a SLIT with it. Both the patients had positive SPT, specific IgE and DBPCFCs with profilin and some vegetables referred in anamnesis. They therefore underwent SLIT with profilin extract. At the end of treatment, the patients had negative DBPCFCs with culprit foods and a decrease of specific IgE levels for profilin and vegetable foods. Profilin desensitization allowed our patients to manage their diet without restriction, eating several foods previously not tolerated.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Letter

MeSH terms

  • Administration, Sublingual
  • Adult
  • Allergens / administration & dosage*
  • Cross Reactions
  • Desensitization, Immunologic / methods*
  • Female
  • Food Hypersensitivity / diagnosis
  • Food Hypersensitivity / immunology
  • Food Hypersensitivity / therapy*
  • Humans
  • Immunoglobulin E / blood
  • Intradermal Tests
  • Middle Aged
  • Predictive Value of Tests
  • Profilins / administration & dosage*
  • Profilins / immunology*
  • Rhinitis, Allergic, Seasonal / diagnosis
  • Rhinitis, Allergic, Seasonal / immunology*
  • Treatment Outcome

Substances

  • Allergens
  • Profilins
  • Immunoglobulin E