Preventing fatalities from anaphylaxis: an allergist-immunologist's perspective.

Abstract

A patient with asthma related to his work in a greenhouse with Lathyrus odoratus was studied. Specific IgE against pollen of this cultivar of the Leguminosae family could be demonstrated, indicating a type I allergic mechanism. Monitoring of serial PEFR measurements and nonallergic bronchial responsiveness warrant diagnosis of occupational asthma.