Nutrients, Vol. 18, Pages 831: Almond Allergy in Children and Adults: A Narrative Review of Current Knowledge, Clinical Challenges, and Research Gaps
Nutrients doi: 10.3390/nu18050831
Authors:
Tudini Laura
Colletti Giorgio
Iavarone Sonia
Moraca Paola
Brindisi Giulia
Zicari Anna Maria
Anania Caterina
Background: Almond is one of the most widely consumed tree nuts worldwide; however, almond allergy remains poorly characterized. Despite frequent sensitization, the prevalence of clinically relevant almond allergy appears low, contributing to diagnostic uncertainty. This review summarizes current evidence on the epidemiology, clinical manifestations, and diagnostic challenges of almond allergy. Methods: A narrative review was conducted using PubMed, Scopus, and UpToDate databases. Studies reporting almond-specific data on epidemiology, diagnostics, molecular allergens, and oral food challenge (OFC) outcomes were included. Results: Across heterogeneous studies, clinically confirmed almond allergy appears to be uncommon despite high rates of sensitization, particularly among patients with atopic dermatitis and concomitant tree nut allergy. In sensitized individuals, OFC positivity ranges from 4% to 33%, with anaphylaxis and severe reactions reported in 0.5–12.2% of challenged patients. Conventional diagnostic tests, including skin prick testing and almond-specific IgE, demonstrate limited predictive value, with no reliable cut-off levels for predicting clinical reactivity. Consequently, OFC remains essential for definitive diagnosis. Clinical outcomes vary according to age, ethnicity, and almond processing, with lower OFC positivity observed in pediatric cohorts and reduced reactivity to processed almond products. Conclusions: Almond allergy is relatively rare despite frequent sensitization. Improved almond-specific molecular diagnostics may enhance risk stratification and reduce unnecessary dietary avoidance.
Background: Almond is one of the most widely consumed tree nuts worldwide; however, almond allergy remains poorly characterized. Despite frequent sensitization, the prevalence of clinically relevant almond allergy appears low, contributing to diagnostic uncertainty. This review summarizes current evidence on the epidemiology, clinical manifestations, and diagnostic challenges of almond allergy. Methods: A narrative review was conducted using PubMed, Scopus, and UpToDate databases. Studies reporting almond-specific data on epidemiology, diagnostics, molecular allergens, and oral food challenge (OFC) outcomes were included. Results: Across heterogeneous studies, clinically confirmed almond allergy appears to be uncommon despite high rates of sensitization, particularly among patients with atopic dermatitis and concomitant tree nut allergy. In sensitized individuals, OFC positivity ranges from 4% to 33%, with anaphylaxis and severe reactions reported in 0.5–12.2% of challenged patients. Conventional diagnostic tests, including skin prick testing and almond-specific IgE, demonstrate limited predictive value, with no reliable cut-off levels for predicting clinical reactivity. Consequently, OFC remains essential for definitive diagnosis. Clinical outcomes vary according to age, ethnicity, and almond processing, with lower OFC positivity observed in pediatric cohorts and reduced reactivity to processed almond products. Conclusions: Almond allergy is relatively rare despite frequent sensitization. Improved almond-specific molecular diagnostics may enhance risk stratification and reduce unnecessary dietary avoidance. Read More