Clinical Information

Allergies to tree nuts are relatively prevalent and can result in severe reactions. The main culprits in tree nut allergies include walnut, almond, pistachio, cashew, pecan, hazelnut, macadamia, Brazil nut, and pine nuts. Tree nut allergy often appears in young children and estimates of prevalence range from 0.1 % to greater than 5% of the population, dependent on geographical region.

In the case of nut-induced allergic reactions, as with many other foods, symptoms usually present within minutes of ingestion. Over 80% of reactions to tree nuts involve allergy related respiratory symptoms. Tree nut allergies are one of the most dangerous types of allergic reaction with 20% to 40% of cases of related anaphylaxis, and 70% to 90% of fatalities attributable to nut exposure, including peanut exposure.

Ana o 3 is a heat and digestion stable storage protein found in high abundance in cashew nuts. Approximately 80% of those with cashew allergy exhibit reactivity to the Ana o 3 component. Cashew nut allergy is often associated with severe reactions. Sensitization with Ana o 3 is associated with anaphylaxis in system reactions.

Severe reactions in those with cashew nut allergy occur at a higher frequency than in those with peanut allergy. Cashews can be found in Asian cuisines, pesto, and nut butter. Cooking will not destroy the allergenic potential of Ana o 3 f. In addition to being severe, cashew nut allergy is persistent and can manifest early in life. Co-sensitization has been repeated between pistachio, walnuts, and, to a lesser extent, hazelnut.