ETHANOL-INDUCED ANAPHYLAXIS FOLLOWING INGESTION OF OVERRIPE ROCK MELON, CUCUMIS-MELO

Background: Anaphylactic reactions to ethanol are rare with only seven cases reported in the literature. All previous cases have occurred fo llowing ingestion of alcoholic beverages or food to which an alcoholic beverage has been added. To date there are no cases in the literature of ethanol-induced anaphylaxis caused by the accumulation of endogeno us ethanol in overripe fruit. Methods: We report a patient with ethano l-induced anaphylaxis who developed anaphylaxis following ingestion of overripe, but not fresh rock melon (Cucumis melo). The patient is a 2 4-year-old, previously well woman who experienced five episodes of acu te anaphylaxis following ingestion of various alcoholic beverages and, on one occasion, following ingestion of overripe rock melon to which no ethanol was added. Ethanol-induced anaphylaxis was confirmed on bli nded challenge; however, challenge with freshly prepared rock melon wa s negative. The patient declined further challenges. Conclusion: Inges tion of overripe fruits may cause anaphylaxis in patients with ethanol -induced anaphylaxis. These patients should therefore, be advised to a void ingestion of overripe fruits.