Beer-induced anaphylaxis due to barley sensitization: Two case reports

Despite the large worldwide beer consumption, allergic reactions have very rarely been reported. We describe two cases of severe systemic reactions du e to beer ingestion: one case of anaphylaxis requiring emergency care and o ne of generalized urticaria and angioedema. The two patients underwent a de tailed diagnostic procedure involving skin testing, oral challenge with add itives, detection of specific IgE to the components of beer, and oral chall enge with beer in one patient. The results of the tests in the particular s kin tests and IgE assay; allowed us to detect barley as the specific ingred ient responsible for the observed allergic reactions to beer. Therefore, su ch a sensitization should always be taken into account in the case of suspe cted reactions following beer ingestion.