Ethanol metabolite acetic acid as causative agent for type-1 hypersensitivity-like reactions to alcoholic beverages.

BACKGROUND

Adverse reactions to alcoholic beverages are common and more frequently mediated by immunological mechanisms than previously thought.

OBJECTIVE

To elucidate relevant allergens in this context we studied patients with an informative medical history.

METHODS

This report describes a comprehensive allergological approach in a patient exhibiting type-I hypersensitivity-like reactions towards beverages and medication containing alcohol, and salad dressings with acetic acid.

RESULTS

The ethanol metabolite acetic acid was found to yield positive prick test results in concentrations not eliciting reactions in healthy and atopic controls.

CONCLUSIONS

Among other ethanol metabolites, acetic acid is a potential allergen in the context of hypersensitivity towards alcoholic beverages.