Ethanol-induced anaphylaxis following ingestion of overripe rock melon, Cucumis melo.

BACKGROUND

Anaphylactic reactions to ethanol are rare with only seven cases reported in the literature. All previous cases have occurred following ingestion of alcoholic beverages or food to which an alcoholic beverage has been added. To date there are no cases in the literature of ethanol-induced anaphylaxis caused by the accumulation of endogenous ethanol in overripe fruit.

METHODS

We report a patient with ethanol-induced anaphylaxis who developed anaphylaxis following ingestion of overripe, but not fresh rock melon (Cucumis melo). The patient is a 24-year-old, previously well woman who experienced five episodes of acute anaphylaxis following ingestion of various alcoholic beverages and, on one occasion, following ingestion of overripe rock melon to which no ethanol was added. Ethanol-induced anaphylaxis was confirmed on blinded challenge; however, challenge with freshly prepared rock melon was negative. The patient declined further challenges.

CONCLUSION

Ingestion of overripe fruits may cause anaphylaxis in patients with ethanol-induced anaphylaxis. These patients should therefore, be advised to avoid ingestion of overripe fruits.