Corn (Zea mays L.) is one of the most common food crops worldwide. Corn allergy can cause both mild and severe reactions, including anaphylaxis. Inhalation of corn dust can cause occupational asthma, and skin contact can lead to allergic manifestations. Several allergenic components of corn have been identified, with the main ones being Zea m1 and Zea m14. These allergenic components may cross-react with other cereals, fruits, and pollen.
Corn allergens show cross-reactivity with other cereals (rice, wheat, barley), fruits (peach, cherry, grape), and pollen. The main allergenic component Zea m14 is resistant to thermal and chemical processing, making allergen avoidance in the diet difficult. Determining IgE antibodies aids in accurate diagnosis and therapy selection, especially in occupational allergies caused by inhalation of corn dust.
FEIA (Fluorescence Enzyme Immunoassay/ImmunoCAP) – quantitative determination of sensitization to corn allergen.
Please note that the research method and reference values may vary depending on the equipment and test systems used.