Allergische Rhinitis auf die Zierpflanze Philodendron bipennifolium: Nachweis von spezifischem IgE und positive Reaktion auf Provokation mit Blätterextrakt

Philodendron species are popular indoor plants and are not known to elicit immediate-type allergic reactions so far. We report on a 46-year-old female with persistant rhinoconjunctivitis at home, where a Philodendron (Ph.) bipennifolium was present. The skin prick tests with routine inhalant allergens were positive for grass-, rye-, hazel- and ash pollen. A scratch test was positive for Ph. bipennifolium leaves and Ficus benjamina. Specific IgE (CAP-FEIA) was elevated for Ph. bipennifolium, Ph. scandens, Ficus benjamina and natural rubber latex. A nasal provocation (NPT) with fresh extract from Ph. bipennifolium leaves resulted in rhinorrhea, itching of the throat and increased resistance of the nasal airways. This is the first report on immediate-type allergic reaction to Ph. bipennifolium and detection of specific IgE. The clinical relevance was shown by NPT. Philodendron spp. therefore have allergen(s) potent enough to cause allergic disease in an indoor environment.