Allergy, Kiwi

A hypersensitive reaction to kiwis can occur when the immune system identifies the fruit's proteins as harmful or invasive. This leads to a subsequent release of IgE antibodies which, in turn, secrete histamine. This specific biochemical substance is responsible for the manifestation of allergic symptoms.

Typically, individuals suffering from a kiwi allergy will experience the following: 

• Severe abdominal cramps
• Breathing difficulties
• Dermatological conditions (Eczema, Hives, Rashes, etc.)
• Nausea and vomiting
• Itching near the lips, tongue, throat or mouth
• Inflammation of the throat or the mouth

While clinical hypersensitivity to kiwis is broadly classified as a food allergy, some individuals may experience symptoms exclusively near oral areas. In such cases, the severity of the reaction will be relatively milder and may disappear after a short while.

Rarely, a kiwi allergy may induce respiratory complications that trigger anaphylaxis. The condition can be fatal if the affected individual does not receive immediate medical attention. Some common indicators for an anaphylactic shock are as follows:

• Shallow or fast breathing
• Cognitive impairment
• Dizziness and loss of consciousness
• Rapid pulse 
• Unusual sweating or a clammy skin

The kiwi allergy test offered by Apollo 24|7 can accurately diagnose such reactions to the fruit. Consequently, doctors may use positive assay results to outline treatment options or conduct supplementary examinations to determine the condition’s cross-reactivity.

Following standard allergy test procedures, lab technicians introduce the sample’s IgE antibodies to the allergen (kiwi) through an ImmunoCAP. Any non-specific particles are washed away, after which labelled anti-IgE antibodies are added to the reaction; that forms a complex which incubates for an allotted period.

After a final wash, the bound complex incubates again alongside a developing agent. Testers then measure the solution through a light probe to determine the presence of specific IgE particles. 
Subsequently, assay results demonstrating a concentration equal to or greater than 0.7 IgE kU/L indicate a kiwi allergy.

An allergy test may be inconclusive in some cases, requiring doctors to evaluate the results in that specific clinical context. Such assay interferences can occur if: 

• Non-specific IgE particles remain during the test’s binding phase
• The patient has received prior immunotherapy
• The subject displays clinically insignificant symptoms but still has measurable levels of IgE particles

Currently, treatment for a kiwi allergy includes over-the-counter anti-histamine medications such as Claritin, Allegra or Clarinex. While these remedies can be helpful for mild symptoms, more severe allergic reactions require comprehensive immunotherapy.

Additionally, since a food allergy demonstrates cross-reactivity to an extent, clinical hypersensitivity to other fruits may also imply an allergic reaction to kiwis. Examples of some foods commonly linked to such instances include:

• Avocados
• Chestnuts
• Bananas
• Apples
• Hazelnuts

Anyone diagnosed with allergic reactions to the foods mentioned above must opt for a kiwi allergy test.

That would enable doctors to form a consolidated immunotherapy outline that covers a wide range of allergens. Healthcare professionals also prescribe such tests to diagnose food allergies independent of each other.