Garlic (Allium sativum) is one of the most common spices worldwide and an important component of traditional medicine. Garlic allergy is rare but can cause a wide range of symptoms: from gastrointestinal disorders to contact dermatitis, urticaria, occupational asthma, or even anaphylaxis. The main allergens are alliinase and diallyl disulfide, which are heat-labile, so thermally processed garlic has lower allergenicity. Cross-reactivity has been identified with other members of the Amaryllidaceae family, such as onion and leek.
Garlic is a known type I allergen and can cause allergic contact dermatitis. Contact allergens such as diallyl disulfide, allicin, and allyl propyl disulfide can cause dermatitis of the fingers. The main allergen alliinase shows cross-reactivity with other plants of the Liliaceae family and grass pollen. Detecting sensitization to garlic aids in the diagnosis and prevention of allergic reactions.
FEIA (Fluorescence Enzyme Immunoassay, ImmunoCAP (Solid-phase Immunofluorescence)) – quantitative determination of garlic allergen.
Please note that the research method and reference values may vary depending on the equipment and test systems used.