Severe systemic reactions caused by poppy seed

We describe a case of severe systemic reactions caused from poppy seed inge stion. Poppy seeds were suspected to be responsible for the symptoms on the basis of the clinical history. This suspicion was confirmed by skin testin g and the prick-prick test. Moreover, a RAST assay was conducted with an ex tract of fresh food confirming the presence of specific IgE to poppy seed. Although poppy seeds are not commonly used. we highlight the possible impor tance of such rare and often hidden sources of allergens.