Clinical Information

IgE antibodies to Ara h 1, Ara h 2, Ara h 3 and Ara h 6 components are associated with higher risk of anaphylactic and other systemic reactions to peanut exposure. Antibodies to Ara h 2 are nearly always associated with clinical peanut allergy. Patients with IgE antibodies to any of these components need to strictly avoid all exposure to peanut products.

Antibodies to Ara h 9 component are associated with variable risk of anaphylactic and other systemic reactions to peanut exposure. These antibodies may be cross reactive to peach and other fruits with pits. Patients with IgE antibodies to Ara h 9 (with or without antibodies to Ara h 8) but no antibodies to Ara h 1, Ara h 2, Ara h 3, or Ara h 6 may or may not need to avoid peanut exposure, depending on clinical history of symptoms.

Antibodies to Ara h 8 component are associated with lower risk of systemic reactions. These antibodies may be cross reactive with birch and other pollens. Oral food challenge may be indicated for patients with IgE antibodies to Ara h 8 only. If oral food challenge is negative, avoidance of peanut consumption or exposure may not be necessary.