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Allergy to Weeping Fig ‐A New Occupational Disease
Author(s) -
Axelsson G.,
Skedinger M.,
Zetterström O.
Publication year - 1985
Publication title -
allergy
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 3.363
H-Index - 173
eISSN - 1398-9995
pISSN - 0105-4538
DOI - 10.1111/j.1398-9995.1985.tb02687.x
Subject(s) - allergy , medicine , allergen , sensitization , environmental health , dermatology , immunology
During the last decade green plants have become more common in interior decoration. There are companies specializing in the leasing of green plants to public buildings and offices. Weeping fig is one of the most popular green plants. Dust and dry components of the plant are usually removed by vigorous shaking. In this way the allergen becomes airborne. During a few months we have seen several plant keepers who have developed airway allergy to weeping fig. Two of them have been thoroughly investigated. Both are atopics. Extracts were made from leaves and branches and both patients had positive skin prick tests and RAST. The risk of sensitization in plant keepers who work with weeping fig is probably considerable.