A mango allergy is an immune system reaction to specific compounds in the fruit. The body mistakenly identifies these substances as harmful, leading to various allergic manifestations.
Prevalence of Mango Allergy
While many people enjoy mangoes without issue, a mango allergy is a recognized condition, though less common than allergies to peanuts or tree nuts. Localized reactions, particularly skin irritation, are encountered more frequently than systemic allergic responses. Severe, widespread reactions are rare, but milder forms of allergy are more often reported.
Symptoms and Reactions
Allergic reactions to mango can present in various ways, ranging from mild skin irritation to severe, whole-body responses. The most frequently observed symptoms involve the skin, often appearing as contact dermatitis. This can include a rash, itching, redness, and blistering, typically occurring around the mouth or on areas that have directly touched the mango peel or sap. Urticaria, commonly known as hives, which are itchy, raised welts on the skin, can also develop.
Beyond skin manifestations, some individuals may experience Oral Allergy Syndrome (OAS) after consuming mango. This involves itching or tingling sensations in the mouth, throat, or lips almost immediately upon contact with the fruit. Digestive upset, such as nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, or diarrhea, can also occur in response to mango consumption.
Less commonly, respiratory symptoms like wheezing or shortness of breath may arise. In rare instances, a severe, life-threatening reaction known as anaphylaxis can occur. Anaphylaxis is characterized by rapid and widespread symptoms that may include swelling of the throat, significant difficulty breathing, dizziness, and a dangerous drop in blood pressure. Anaphylaxis requires immediate medical attention.
Causes and Related Allergens
The primary compounds responsible for allergic reactions to mango are found in its peel, sap, and sometimes in the fruit’s flesh. The most notable is urushiol, an oily resin also present in plants like poison ivy, poison oak, and poison sumac. When the immune system encounters urushiol, it can trigger an inflammatory response, leading to the various allergic symptoms.
Due to urushiol and similar allergenic proteins, individuals with a mango allergy often show cross-reactivity with other members of the Anacardiaceae plant family. This means people sensitive to poison ivy, poison oak, or poison sumac may also react to mangoes. Cross-reactivity can also extend to other fruits and nuts within this family, such as cashews and pistachios.
Diagnosis and Management
Diagnosing a mango allergy typically begins with a thorough review of the individual’s medical history, including a detailed account of symptoms and any known exposure to mango. An allergist may then perform specific diagnostic tests to confirm the allergy. These commonly include skin prick tests, where a small amount of mango extract is applied to the skin to observe for a localized reaction, or specific IgE blood tests, which measure the level of antibodies the immune system produces in response to mango allergens.
The primary strategy for managing a mango allergy is strict avoidance of the fruit and any products containing it. For individuals sensitive to the peel or sap, taking precautions during handling, such as wearing gloves or having someone else prepare the mango, can help prevent contact dermatitis. For mild reactions like skin rashes or oral itching, over-the-counter antihistamines may provide relief.
More severe skin reactions might require prescribed corticosteroids. Individuals at risk of anaphylaxis must carry an epinephrine auto-injector and be trained in its use, as this medication can rapidly counteract severe allergic symptoms. Seeking immediate medical attention is important if severe symptoms, such as difficulty breathing or dizziness, develop after mango exposure.