[The initiating role of several respiratory and skin contaminants in food allergies].

The authors present data which suggest that mustard hypersensitivity can result from Isocyanates induced occupational asthma. Isothiocyanates present in mustard spice is probably responsible for this cross-sensitivity. Frequently, food allergies result from skin or respiratory primary contact and sensitization. Some examples are proposed. Distinctive structures and functions of immunological system in cutaneous, respiratory and digestive apparatus, give an explanation for the predominance of skin and respiratory immunological systems to promote hypersensitivity. For the prevention of food allergies, it is very important to avoid excessive skin and respiratory contaminations by allergens in the work and home environments.