Allergic reactions to insect secretions

Eur J Dermatol. 2013 Nov-Dec;23(6):767-73. doi: 10.1684/ejd.2013.2186.

Abstract

Some products derived from insects can induce allergic reactions. The main characteristics of some products from honeybees, cochineal and silkworms are summarised here. We review allergic reactions from honey-derived products (propolis, wax, royal jelly), from cochineal products (shellac and carmine) and from silk : clinical features, allergological investigations and allergens if they are known.

Keywords: Allergy; insect secretions.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Carmine / adverse effects
  • Cosmetics / adverse effects
  • Fatty Acids / immunology*
  • Honey / adverse effects*
  • Humans
  • Hypersensitivity / immunology*
  • Insecta*
  • Occupational Exposure / adverse effects
  • Propolis / immunology*
  • Resins, Plant / adverse effects
  • Silk / immunology*
  • Waxes / adverse effects*

Substances

  • Cosmetics
  • Fatty Acids
  • Resins, Plant
  • Silk
  • Waxes
  • beeswax
  • shellac
  • Propolis
  • Carmine
  • royal jelly