Allergy and Asthma Source

Eczema After Contact with Fruits, Vegetables, and other Plants

Also see: Allergic Skin Conditions
An itchy, eczematous rash similar to a poison ivy reaction can develop after several days in some people after eating or handling food like mangoes, artichoke, asparagus, celery, cucumber, lettuce, and onions. This is a result of a delayed type allergic reaction to the proteins on the surface of these foods. Some people who are allergic to poison ivy may develop the same reaction to fresh mangoes because the oils on both plants cross-react.

Using gloves and hand and mouth washing immediately after contact to eliminate the oils and proteins may prevent or reduce the severity of the reaction. Once the rash starts, treatment with topical or oral steroids may be necessary.

Source:N Engl J Med. 1998 Jul 23;339(4):235