Allergy, Potato

Potatoes are edible tubers that are a good source of fibre for the human body. Not only do they help in losing weight, but they also keep blood sugar and cholesterol levels in check. In addition, their antioxidant property allows them to ensure the proper functioning of the body by protecting the cells against free radicals. As a result, potatoes may assist in preventing ailments like heart disease or cancer.

Usually, potatoes do not pose any problems to the body unless someone suffers from a potato allergy. This condition occurs when the immune system displays an adverse reaction to patatine or solanine, compounds specifically present in potatoes. Due to this, the immune system treats these compounds like foreign bodies, similar to how it treats bacteria and viruses.

When exposed to potatoes, the immune system dispatches white blood cells (WBCs) and IgE antibodies to protect the body. These cells release histamines into the body. This overall immune response causes potato allergy symptoms in the body. Other allergies like plant and latex allergies may have cross-sensitivities with potato allergies.

The potato allergy test is used to determine the presence of these IgE antibodies in the blood and hence, determine if an individual is allergic to potatoes. This test also recognizes the allergen responsible for the signs and symptoms associated with the allergy. Additionally, it is used as a marker to confirm the allergen sensitizations before starting immunotherapy.

It is a simple blood test in which the clinical lab technician draws blood from the vein in the arm, usually at the bend of the elbow. This blood is then refrigerated and sent for further analysis to measure the number of allergen-specific antibodies in the blood.

If the IgE antibodies in the sample belong to class 1 or higher, the patient is likely to suffer from a potato allergy. Usually, a value of less than 0.35 kU/L is interpreted as negative, indicating the absence of potato allergy in the patient. A range of 0.35-0.69 kU/L is often read as normal. However, any value upwards of 0.70 kU/L might be a strong indicator of a potato allergy.

Apollo 24/7 offers a comprehensive potato allergy test to prevent the allergies from escalating and leading to severe conditions like anaphylaxis. Some of the symptoms associated with a potato allergy are:

• Watery, swollen or itchy eyes
• Difficulty in breathing
• Swelling of the mouth, tongue, or nose
• Itchy skin
• Constant sneezing
• Sore or scratchy throat

A doctor might recommend the potato allergy test to rule out the corresponding allergy or confirm a diagnosis for individuals suffering from persisting symptoms. Once the results are confirmed, the doctor might recommend appropriate treatment methods to control this condition.

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