Maize allergy J78.1

On the one hand, corn can cause food allergies. On the other hand, corn pollen can cause allergic symptoms. However, corn pollen is heavy and therefore does not fly very far. Clinical symptoms generally only occur in the vicinity of the maize fields. The main flowering period of maize is between June and August. Allergy sufferers should avoid walking near maize fields during this time.

Cross-allergies are mainly directed against various grasses such as pasture grass or also cereals such as rye, oats and wheat.

Corn grows up to 2.5 m high. The original country of origin is Mexico. There are about 50,000 different types of corn. The concentration of pollen near maize fields can be high. Size of the pollen: 52-142 µm.

Maize allergies were in the past rather classified as rare. However, they now seem to have a clear clinical relevance. Severe forms of the disease have also become known. The major allergen is a 9-kD lipid transfer protein with clear cross-reactivity. The second allergen is a trypsin inhibitor (Jäger L et al. 2001)

1. Ambrosi B et al (2009) Sensitization against maize pollen in a botanical research institute. Derm 15: 288-290
2. Jäger L et al (2001) Food allergies and intolerances. Urban & Fischer Publishing House Munich, Jena S 121