Allergic reactions to mangoes are possible. While widely enjoyed, certain individuals may develop sensitivities to proteins found in the fruit, its peel, sap, or even the tree itself. These reactions can vary significantly, ranging from localized discomfort to more widespread and severe systemic responses.
Types of Reactions to Mangoes
Reactions to mangoes primarily manifest in two distinct forms: immediate hypersensitivity and delayed hypersensitivity. Immediate hypersensitivity, also known as IgE-mediated food allergy, occurs when the immune system mistakenly identifies proteins in the mango as harmful. This triggers an immediate response involving IgE antibodies, leading to rapid symptom onset following ingestion.
The other type, delayed hypersensitivity, is commonly referred to as contact dermatitis or “mango rash.” This reaction is often triggered by urushiol, a compound present in the mango peel, sap, and sometimes the flesh. Urushiol is the same allergenic substance found in plants like poison ivy and poison oak, explaining similar rash patterns. Symptoms of contact dermatitis typically appear hours to days after skin exposure.
Symptoms and Their Causes
For IgE-mediated reactions, symptoms appear rapidly, within minutes of ingesting mango proteins. These can include hives and generalized redness. Swelling, particularly of the lips, face, and throat, may occur, potentially leading to difficulty breathing.
Gastrointestinal symptoms like abdominal pain and vomiting are also possible. In severe but rare instances, anaphylaxis, a life-threatening reaction, can develop, requiring immediate medical attention. Oral Allergy Syndrome (OAS) causes itching or tingling in the mouth, lips, or throat immediately after contact with the fruit.
Contact dermatitis, caused by the urushiol in mango skin and sap, presents as a delayed skin reaction. Symptoms generally emerge hours to several days after exposure. Affected areas may develop intense itching, redness, and blisters. These blisters can progress into red, inflamed patches. Swelling around the eyes and an eczema-like rash around the lips are common, especially if the face contacts the fruit.
Diagnosis and Management
Diagnosing a mango allergy typically involves a healthcare professional assessing your medical history and symptoms. For suspected IgE-mediated allergies, common diagnostic methods include skin prick tests, where a small amount of mango extract is applied to the skin. Blood tests can also measure specific IgE antibodies against mango proteins, with elevated levels indicating an allergy. An oral food challenge, conducted under strict medical supervision, may be used as a definitive diagnostic tool. For contact dermatitis, a patch test using mango peel extracts can help identify the allergen, or diagnosis may rely on recognizing the pattern of exposure.
Managing a mango allergy primarily centers on strict avoidance of mangoes and mango-containing products. For individuals with a diagnosed IgE-mediated allergy and a history of severe reactions, carrying an epinephrine auto-injector is advised. Milder IgE-mediated symptoms may be managed with antihistamines. For contact dermatitis, topical corticosteroids or antihistamines can help alleviate symptoms like itching and rash.
Cross-Reactivity with Other Plants
Cross-reactivity is a notable aspect of mango allergies, particularly given the fruit’s botanical family. Mango (Mangifera indica) belongs to the Anacardiaceae family, which also includes plants like poison ivy, poison oak, and poison sumac. This shared botanical lineage means that individuals sensitive to urushiol in these plants may also experience contact dermatitis reactions to mango. Other members of this family, such as cashews and pistachios, can also exhibit cross-reactivity with mango.
Another form of cross-reactivity can occur in those with IgE-mediated mango allergy, related to pollen sensitivities. This phenomenon is known as Oral Allergy Syndrome (OAS) or Pollen Food Syndrome. It happens when proteins in mango resemble proteins found in certain pollens, such as birch pollen. Individuals with birch pollen allergy may experience mild oral symptoms like itching or tingling in the mouth after consuming raw mango, as their immune system recognizes similar protein structures.