CASTOR BEAN DUST ALLERGY

Castor beans contain highly potent allergens which after pressing are mainly left in the castor bean mould. Dust from the beans or the mould can produce severe reactions such as contact urticaria, rhinoconjunctivitis and bronchial asthma in sensitized persons. We report now 3 typical cases which were observed after contact with castor bean allergens while working. According to the results of our findings and reports of others, people working in castor bean mills, coffee processing factories or having contact with fertilizers are more exposed to the castor bean allergens and may therefore develop allergic response. In case typical symptoms are observed in persons working under such conditions the existence of allergic reactions to castor bean should be considered and diagnostic tests carried out.