Eosinophilic gastroenteritis due to rhus ingestion presenting with gastrointestinal hemorrhage

Systemic contact dermatitis induced by Rhus allergens in Korea: exercising caution in the consumption of this nutritious food

Systemic contact dermatitis (SCD) develops when a person who was previously sensitized to an allergen is exposed to the same allergen via the systemic route. In East Asia, the use of lacquer for polishing furniture is common and a part of the traditional culture. Contact exposure to tableware polished with Rhus lacquer may lead to sensitization. In Korea, SCD is commonly observed after systemic exposure to Rhus, a nutritious food item consumed because of the common belief of it improving the immune system. In this study, we reviewed the medical records of 21 Korean patients with SCD caused by Rhus ingestion. We found that the most significant epidemiological factor for SCD was the season of the year. Furthermore, 66.67% of the patients presented with leucocytosis and 23.81% showed increased liver enzyme levels. It is important to educate people on the risks associated with the systemic ingestion of Rhus.

Upper Gastrointestinal Bleeding as the First Presentation of Eosinophilic Gastrointestinal Disease

Gastrointestinal bleeding is a rare but potentially life-threatening manifestation of eosinophilic gastrointestinal disorders (EGIDs). Here, we describe a case series comprising 5 pediatric patients between 7 and 12 years of age, who presented to the emergency department with hematemesis and were subsequently diagnosed with EGID. Accompanying allergic history, peripheral eosinophilia, and total IgE elevation were common. Despite a more severe presentation, response to medical and dietary therapy was favorable. A comprehensive review of the literature revealed 26 other cases with similar findings that reinforced the importance of prompt recognition and early dietary and immunomodulating therapy in the control of this disease.