[Article in German]
Abstract
The
customs and traditions associated with Christmas may result in allergic
reactions to allergens that are typical for this period. On the one
hand the rise in prevalence of allergic diseases has continued in the
industrialized world for the last decades and allergies are regarded as
widespread diseases. On the other hand the 21th century is a time of
"allergy delusion". This review summarizes the facts about allergic
reactions to Christmas typical decoration, food and behavior. Taken
together, allergic reactions to Christmas tree, poinsettia,
Christmas cactus, perfumed candles, Christmas typical food, common
gifts like mobile phones and laptops, frankincense, myrrh and pollens
have been described but in very rare instances. The chance to survive
Christmas without allergic symptoms is high, particularly for
non-atopics.
© Georg Thieme Verlag KG Stuttgart · New York.
