Tree pollen

Abstract

 It is estimated that pollen allergies affect half of allergic individuals and may cause not only allergic rhinitis but also pollen food allergy syndrome. In general, tree pollen allergy is caused by trees belonging to the order of Pinales, Fagales, Lamiales and Proteales. The geographical distribution of allergenic plants affects patients’ sensitization profiles. In Japan, pollen allergy is caused by cedar and cypress belonging to the Cryptomeria family in the Pinales, and alder and birch belonging to the Betulaceae family in the Fagales. Molecule-based profiling of allergic sensitization has helped to elucidate the immunological connections of allergen cross-reactivity. The knowledge of the taxonomical and molecular relationship between different tree species allows the prediction of cross reactivity between closely related plants, which share homologous molecules not found in unrelated plants. These will be of great help in identifying causal allergens in pollinosis practice.