IgE-mediated occupational asthma induced by herbal medicine, Banha (Pinellia ternata)

Clin Exp Allergy. 2001 May;31(5):779-81. doi: 10.1046/j.1365-2222.2001.01067.x.

Abstract

There have been few reported cases of occupational asthma induced by Pinellia ternata (Banha), and the mechanism responsible for this type of asthma is still undetermined. We report a case of Banha-induced occupational asthma with IgE-mediated mechanism. The patient had positive skin responses to Banha extract and Banha-specific bronchial challenge elicited an early asthmatic response. The serum-specific IgE binding to Banha extract was detectable and completely inhibited with the additions of 0.1 microg/mL of Banha extract on ELISA inhibition. Seven IgE binding components to Banha extract (6.5, 22, 24, 32, 34, and 48 kDa) were detected using SDS-PAGE and immunoblot analysis. In conclusion, the results of this study suggest that P. ternata (Banha)-derived allergens are able to cause IgE-mediated bronchoconstriction in exposed workers.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Asthma / chemically induced*
  • Drug Hypersensitivity / etiology
  • Herbal Medicine*
  • Humans
  • Hypersensitivity, Immediate / chemically induced*
  • Lectins / adverse effects*
  • Male
  • Occupational Diseases / chemically induced*
  • Plant Lectins*

Substances

  • Lectins
  • Pinellia ternata lectin
  • Plant Lectins