Applications: |
A large number of different varieties of lettuce have been raised and are now cultivated worldwide, primarily for use in salads. |
Allergens: |
Lactucin, lactucopicrin (? Sesquiterpenes) |
Allergy: |
Lettuce is an occasional cause of allergic contact. dermatitis particularly in food handlers, cooks and market gardeners. It tends to cause dermatitis on the hands, which runs down the forearms. Unfortunately immediate hypersensitivity lettuce has also been reported. This includes Urticaria and life threatening anaphylaxis. The allergy seems to cross-react with chicory and endives, so avoiding these vegetables may also be necessary. It is a form of allergy to compounds, so it can also cross-react with other members of this large family of plants. |
Cross reactions: |
Chicory and endives |
Other information: |
Paintings of what appears to be Cos Lettuce have been found in Egyptian tombs dating from 4500 BC. C., although there is some uncertainty about its identity. The first authenticated records of cultivated lettuce date back to Greek historical records in 450 BC. C. In the 1st century AD. C., the Romans cultivated different varieties. |
Patch test: |
Leaf as is, sesquiterpenic lactone mixture |