Allergen,Individual-Grass pollen Cultivated Rye Grass Secale Cereale

Globally, grass pollens are a significant cause of IgE-mediated allergy, affecting approximately 40% of all grass allergic patients. Cultivated rye (Secale cereale) is one of the major cereal crops globally. It is used as feed for farm animals. It is widely distributed over the temperate regions of the northern hemisphere and pollinates by the wind. Cultivated rye grass (S. cereale; g12) should not be confused with perennial rye grass (Lolium perenne; g5); rye, the foodstuff (Secale cereale; f5); and the Wild Rye grass (Elymus tricoides; g70).  The pollinating season of cultivated rye varies between May and August, differing according to the geographical location. Its pollens are shed in huge amounts and are considered as a significant triggering factor for acute allergic symptoms like conjunctivitis, allergic rhinitis, and asthma in individuals sensitized to grass pollens. Sensitization to pollens of cereals is widespread. Cultivated rye shows extensive cross-reactivity with the other species of Pooideae family including Timothy grass and perennial ryegrass.

An allergy to cultivated rye grass triggers a reaction in an individual's immune system. The body views certain substances as toxic and produces IgE antibodies to these contaminants. These antibodies cause histamine to be released, which will cause the symptoms of an allergic reaction.

Associated Tests: Allergy - Adult (Comprehensive) Panel , Allergy Screening 

Written by : Supriya Kulkarni, Lead-Content & Training

Reviewed by : Dr. Alap Christry M.D. AVP-Lab Operations & Scientific Business Head-Clinical Chemistry