Identification of potential allergens involved in systemic reactions to melon and watermelon.

摘要

Muskmelon (Cucumis meld) is a fruit that belongs to the Cucurbi-taceae family. Muskmelon (hereafter melon) allergy is highly prevalent in several geographic areas (Central and Mediterranean Europe and the United States). Melon is 1 of the fruits more frequently involved in allergic symptoms in Spain. Oral allergy syndrome is usually its main manifestation, and systemic reactions are rare in patients with melon or watermelon allery. Three allergens have been identified in melon: cucumisin (Cue m I), profilin (Cue m 2), and a pathogenesis-related protein belonging to the PR-1 family (Cue m 3).