Exploring a rare case of occupational senna allergy

Abstract

Background Cassia angustifolia, or senna, is a plant belonging to the Fabaceae family, widely used as a laxative and as a colouring agent in hair dyes. Senna is rarely reported as an occupational allergic sensitizer in the current literature. Aims To describe the case and diagnostic approach of a suspected occupational senna allergy. Case report A male phytopharmaceutical warehouse worker reported bronchial, conjunctival and nasal symptoms immediately upon exposure to senna. We were able to document in vitro sensitization, finding IgE-binding proteins in senna, and in vivo sensitization through positive skin tests and conjunctival provocation test. Conclusion Our study confirms that senna may cause occupational rhinoconjunctivitis symptoms with an IgEdependent mechanism and is the first to confirm it through specific conjunctival provocation test.