Comprehensive Diagnosis, Management, and Treatment of Sesame Allergy

Roxanne C. Oriel, Arnon Elizur, Scott H. Sicherer*

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

5 Scopus citations

Abstract

Sesame allergy prevalence varies regionally and by age, in the range of 0.1% to 0.9%. Reactions can be severe and potentially fatal. Resolution rates are in the range of 20% to 50%. The diagnosis requires a careful history and the use of tests, such as skin prick tests and serum sesame-specific IgE. The availability of serum IgE testing for the sesame protein Ses i 1 has improved diagnostic accuracy. The emerging potential for sesame basophil activation tests and additional new tests will likely improve diagnosis in coming years, further reducing the need for diagnostic oral food challenges. Although sesame proteins share homology with those in many foods, clinically relevant cross-reactivity appears uncommon. Nevertheless, sesame is a prominent allergen for those with multiple food allergies. Management may include strict avoidance, but sesame products vary dramatically in protein content. Many people with sesame allergy tolerate forms that are low in protein, such as scattered seeds, rather than sesame paste that is protein-dense. Thus, options in the approach to avoidance are possible. Studies suggest that sesame oral immunotherapy may be safe and effective, and this and additional treatment options are emerging. Here, we review the current comprehensive diagnosis, management, and treatment for sesame allergy.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)590-597
Number of pages8
JournalJournal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology: In Practice
Volume12
Issue number3
DOIs
StatePublished - Mar 2024

Funding

FundersFunder number
American Academy of Allergy
National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases
Pfizer
Food Allergy Research and Education
Johns Hopkins University

    Keywords

    • Anaphylaxis
    • Diagnosis
    • Food allergy
    • Immunotherapy
    • Sesame
    • Threshold

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