Publication
Title
Cannabis allergy : what do we know anno 2015
Author
Abstract
For about a decade, IgE-mediated cannabis (marihuana) allergy seems to be on the rise. Both active and passive exposure to cannabis allergens may lead to a cannabis sensitization and/or allergy. The clinical manifestations of a cannabis allergy can vary from mild to life-threatening reactions, often depending on the route of exposure. In addition, sensitization to cannabis allergens can trigger various secondary cross-allergies, mostly for plant-derived food. This clinical entity, which we have designated as the cannabis-fruit/vegetable syndrome might also imply cross-reactivity with tobacco, latex and plant-food derived alcoholic beverages. These secondary cross-allergies are mainly described in Europe and appear to result from cross-reactivity between non-specific lipid transfer proteins or thaumatin-like proteins present in Cannabis sativa and their homologues that are ubiquitously distributed throughout plant kingdom. At present, diagnosis of cannabis-related allergies rests upon a thorough history completed with skin testing using native extracts from buds and leaves. However, quantification of specific IgE antibodies and basophil activation tests can also be helpful to establish correct diagnosis. In the absence of a cure, treatment comprises absolute avoidance measures including a stop of any further cannabis (ab)use.
Language
English
Source (journal)
Archivum immunologiae et therapiae experimentalis / Academia Scientiarum Poloniae. - Warszawa
Publication
Basel : Springer basel ag , 2015
ISSN
0004-069X [print]
1661-4917 [online]
DOI
10.1007/S00005-015-0352-Z
Volume/pages
63 :5 (2015) , p. 327-332
ISI
000361536800001
Pubmed ID
26178655
Full text (Publisher's DOI)
Full text (open access)
Full text (publisher's version - intranet only)
UAntwerpen
Faculty/Department
Research group
Publication type
Subject
Affiliation
Publications with a UAntwerp address
External links
Web of Science
Record
Identifier
Creation 14.10.2015
Last edited 04.03.2024
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