Occupational allergy caused by Dianthus caryophillus, Gypsophila paniculata, and Lilium longiflorum

Background Occupational allergy to ornamental flowers is seldom reported. Methods We report a case of a 35-year-old male flower supplier who developed IgE-mediated allergic rhinoconjunctivitis with nasal polyps, and contact urticaria and dermatitis after handling Gypsophila paniculata, Dianthus caryophillus, and Lilium longiflorum. Results Studies revealed the presence of positive immediate skin prick tests. Rubbing tests were positive to G. paniculata and D. caryophillus. Serum specific IgE was detected against G. paniculata and L. longiflorum. In IgE immunoblot, two IgE-binding bands (15 and 17 kDa) were obtained against D. caryophillus, and two different bands (19 and 22 kDa) were visible against L. longiflorum. Conclusions These findings suggest an IgE-mediated reaction as the mechanism responsible for the respiratory and cutaneous symptoms of the patient. No similar cases of allergy to D. caryophillus and L. longiflorum have been previously reported.