Brazil Nut Allergy Test

 Allergic reaction against nuts like Brazil nuts is often similar to reaction that occur after severe food poisoning. Since these reactions are severe and can escalate to anaphylaxis immediately, it is necessary to take the Brazil nut allergy test.

The severity of the Brazil nut allergy depends on the following factors:

Age of the person
Amount of nuts consumed
Location of the person
Type of nut 
Other allergies or disorders

Since the chances of overcoming nut allergies are very low, it is safer to go for a nut allergy test and check for the specific allergies in your body.

A Brazil nut, also known as a para nut, has hard-walled fruit. It contains different types of proteins which is possibly the reason behind the symptoms. Apart from this, the nut also contains dietary fibres, thiamine, copper, and magnesium.

Below are the symptoms of Brazil nut allergy:

Itchiness in mouth, ears, and throat
Hives on the mouth
Swelling of the lips, tongue, mouth, or eyes
Abdominal pain
Vomiting, nausea, and dizziness
Difficulty in swallowing
Diarrhea
Itchiness in throat, eyes, or skin

The Brazil nut allergy test looks for a specific IgE in the body because these immunoglobulins are mainly associated with allergic reactions. The particular IgE found during the nut allergy test include the following:

• rBer e 1: This immunoglobulin is associated with severe reactions and anaphylaxis risk. Even if you consume cooked or roasted Brazil nuts, you might still be prone to such a reaction because this protein is heat stable. 
• Profilin: This protein showcases mild and localised symptoms. The nut allergy test may also show some cross-reactivity toward pollens and other types of raw fruits and vegetables. Additionally, these are sensitive to heat, and the body can tolerate cooked or roasted Brazil nuts. 
• MUXF3: A specific IgE for Brazil nut indicates that the cause for the hypersensitivity might be different from the Brazil nut. 

Flow cytometry is one of the most common methods used for the nut allergy test. It is an accurate scientific technique that is helpful in clinical diagnosis because it assesses the sample using optical, fluidics, and electronic methods.

The mechanism behind allergic reactions is that the body identifies specific components as foreign particles. Thus, the immune system starts to react against these particles to neutralise them. A particular IgE is produced in abundance during this reaction, and the nut allergy test looks for the same.

However, the first reaction is mild, and it could be asymptomatic. This is because the body is preparing itself to recognise the allergen. But, the responses after that are intense as the immune system is ready to attack and neutralise the allergen. 

Medically reviewed by Dr Jatin Ahuja, Infectious Diseases, Apollo Hospitals Indraprastha, South Delhi.

Frequently asked questions

Should you go for a Brazil nut allergy test after skin allergies?

The nut allergy does not directly cause symptoms in the skin. However, the systemic reactions may lead to some signs on the skin, such as swelling, redness, or rashes. Itchiness is rare during a nut allergy. Hence, if you notice other symptoms along with skin allergies, you can go for a Brazil nut allergy test.

Is it necessary to avoid all types of Brazil nuts?

If your Brazil nut allergy test comes out to be positive, then you must avoid all forms of the nut. This is because nuts may contain similar proteins or chemical compounds. Hence, it may ultimately make you vulnerable to different levels of risk. While some people may be able to tolerate it, others might experience severe reaction.

What are some ways to avoid allergic reactions?

If you have taken the nut allergy test and confirmed your condition, you should take the following precautions:  Avoid ingesting food that might contain Brazil nut Always carry epinephrine or antihistamines to calm down the symptoms  Have an emergency medical card that mentions everything about your allergies  Observe the symptoms and try to manage them accordingly

Is it possible to suffer from Brazil nut allergy apart from food items?

Brazil nuts have multiple uses. It is an active component in hair care products, skincare products, and other food items. It is also necessary to check the components of your products and beware of symptoms.

Can Brazil nut allergy test find the cause behind the allergy?

No. The nut allergy test cannot find the cause behind the reaction. However, specific genetic factors believed to play a key role in causing these allergies.