Research progress on pollen food allergy syndrome

Abstract

Pollen food allergy syndrome (PFAS) is an IgE-mediated allergic reaction that occurs when some pollinosis patients ingest certain plant-derived food that contains cross-reactive allergenic components. PFAS is prevalent in both children and adult pollinosis patients. In most cases, PFAS symptoms are confined to the oropharynx and occur within several minutes after oral contact with food. Therefore, PFAS has been also referred as oral allergy syndrome (OAS). A small proportion of PFAS patients would experience systemic symptoms or anaphylaxis. Currently, the diagnosis of PFAS is mainly based on clinical history and allergic tests [skin prick tests and(or) serum specific IgE tests]. Oral provocation tests are used to verify atypical patients. Component-resolved diagnosis is essential for further precise diagnosis and treatment. Management options for PFAS include lifestyle adjustment, symptomatic medication, and immunotherapy. The efficacy and appropriate population for immunotherapy need further investigation. This article aims to update the knowledge on epidemiology, pathogenesis and clinical management of PFAS, thereby enhancing clinicians' understanding as well as treatment progress of this disease entity.