Banana (f92)0234
Banana (Musa acuminata/sapientum/paradisiaca) is a perennial herbaceous plant mainly found in tropical regions. Banana is a popular food product due to its high nutrient content. However, in some people, it can cause allergic reactions ranging from mild symptoms (oral allergy syndrome) to severe anaphylactic conditions. The main allergenic components of banana identified include profilin (Mus a1), chitinase (Mus a2), nonspecific lipid transfer protein (Mus a3), and others. Cross-reactivity is often observed with latex, pollen (olive, birch, palm, ragweed, hazel), and fruits (melon, peach, kiwi, avocado, pineapple).
FEIA (Fluorescence Enzyme Immunoassay), ImmunoCAP (Solid-phase Immunofluorescence) – quantitative determination.
- Diagnosis of allergic reactions to banana.
- Assessment of sensitization level and risk of allergy development.
- Monitoring the effectiveness of ongoing therapy.
- Evaluation of sensitization level after allergen avoidance.
- Assessment of immune system status.
- Blood sampling in the morning on an empty stomach or 4 hours after eating.
- Drinking plain still water is allowed.
- No smoking for 30 minutes before the test.
- For children under 1 year – no food 30-40 minutes before the test; for children 1-5 years – 2-3 hours fasting.
Banana is a source of important nutrients but contains several allergenic proteins that can cause allergic reactions of varying severity. The latex-fruit syndrome and cross-reactivity with pollen and other fruits are important factors in the pathogenesis of banana allergy. Detecting sensitization to banana aids in diagnosis, treatment selection, and prevention of severe allergic reactions.