Abstract
Allergic reactions to peanuts killed at least six people in the UK in 1993. Since then peanut allergy has generated a huge amount of interest among the general public, the medical profession and government agencies. This article first gives a background on the botany and commercial aspects of peanuts, as well as the mechanism of an allergic reaction and the immune response. It then describes the allergenic component of peanuts and how the allergy is manifested. Next, the diagnosis and treatment of food allergy in general, and peanut allergy in particular, are tackled. The paper ends with a presentation of current areas of research that may help in its prevention and treatment.
| Original language | English |
|---|---|
| Pages | 299-302 |
| Number of pages | 4 |
| No. | 8 |
| Specialist publication | Chemistry and Industry (London) |
| Publication status | Published - 1 Jan 1995 |