Chick pea is a leguminous plant. It produces hazel nut-shaped seeds containing nut flavor. It is an important source of protein carbohydrates and B complex vitamins and also certain minerals. Chick pea is consumed mostly in India, in various forms. Apart from India, it is part and parcel of the staple diet in the Middle East. It is also used in the Mediterranean, especially in Spain. Chick pea is not a wild plant though occasionally some wild varieties are available.
What are the Allergens of Chick Pea?
The following allergens are characterised in the chick pea:
- Cic a 2S Albumin, a 10-12 kDa protein
- Cic a IFR, an Isoflavone Reductase
Allergens are supposed to belong to the profilin ( a monomeric protein) family. Apart from this one beta-1,3-glucanase and two chitinases
(digestive enzyme braking chitin) have been isolated from from Chick pea.
Protein Cross-reactivity in Chick Pea Allergy
Cross reactivity is most common among extracts of peanut, garden pea, chick pea and soybean. But not that usual though. In earlier scientific studies IgE antibody is implicated. Authentic studies have proved that these legumes exhibit Type I hypersensitivity.
Apart from the proteins, the foliage and seed pods contain oxalic acid and can irritate the skin.
What are the Tests for Detecting the Chick Pea Allergy ?
The following tests are conducted to detect chick pea allergy:
- Immediate skin reactivity
- Histamine release tests
- IgE antibody determinations
- RAST inhibition
Symptoms of Chick Pea Allergy
The usual symptoms of chick pea allergy include the following:
- Runny nose
- Sneezing
- Wheezing
- Coughing
- Watery eyes
- Rarely anaphylaxis is witnessed
Treatment for Chick Pea Allergy
The treatment options for chick pea allergy symptoms include the following options:
- Avoid contact with the allergen
- Take adrenalin injection if anaphylaxis reaction occurs
- Antihistamine to keep in check the secreted histamine
- Use bronchodilators for countering asthmatic symptoms
More Treatments for Chick Pea Allergy
The main thing is to avoid contact with the allergen. So, dietary modification is necessary to exclude chick peas. Other useful treatments include:
- Nasal sprays, including antihistamines and topical steroids, for allergic rhinitis.
- Eyedrops — olapatadine, ketotifen, levocabastine and ketorolac for allergic conjunctivitis.
- For asthma, take inhaled corticosteroids and inhaled beta agonists.
- Take oral steroids for moderate allergic symptoms, with skin conditions or asthma.
- Desensitization to get used to the allergen.
- In case of anaphylactic reaction, hospitalization may be necessary.
