Oral allergy syndrome caused by raw fish in a Japanese sushi bar worker

Abstract

Oral allergy syndrome (OAS) is a complex of symptoms induced by exposure of the oral and pharyngeal mucosa to food allergens. A 23-year-old female presented in 2006 with oropharyngeal irritation and facial angioedema occurring within 15 min after eating raw fish. Her medical history was significant for mild atopic dermatitis and hand eczema. She had worked in a sushi bar since 2003. Clinical symptoms and positive prick-by-prick test to raw fish confirmed the diagnosis of OAS. It is likely that, our patient was sensitized by direct hand contact with raw fish.