Intimate behavior and allergy: a narrative review

Abstract

Objective: To determine how sex and intimate contacts can represent a risk factor for allergic reactions, because they may favor direct contact with sensitizing substances.

Data sources: We collected in this review the available literature on this subject. The MEDLINE database was searched by a combination of keywords: sex OR sexual intercourse OR kiss OR seminal plasma OR condom AND allergy OR allergic reaction.

Study selection: The studies retrieved were independently evaluated by the authors and included in this review based on their clinical pertinence (i.e., dealing with clinical presentation, diagnosis, or treatment).

Results: Sex and intimate behavior seem to be increasingly described as triggers of allergic reactions, although the pertaining literature is represented mostly by case reports. Kissing has been described as a risk factor for food- and drug-induced severe reactions. Seminal plasma allergy has been repeatedly described and investigated. In this case, practical diagnostic algorithms have been proposed, and desensitization protocols are available. Similarly, there are numerous case reports of allergic reaction due to latex condoms, for which the diagnostic procedure is standardized.

Conclusions: The available literature on intimate behavior, and sex in general, as a trigger of allergic reactions is not abundant. This is probably because of the particular nature of the problem, which concerns intimacy. Nevertheless, reliable diagnostic procedures are available in some specific cases. The possible link between sex and allergy should become part of the personal culture of allergists to extend and improve the diagnosis of unusual or unexplained conditions.