Considerations for the Diagnosis and Management of Sulphite Sensitivity

Bold, Justine (2012) Considerations for the Diagnosis and Management of Sulphite Sensitivity. Gastroenterol Hepatol Bed Bench., 5 (1). pp. 3-6. ISSN 2008-2258 Online: 2008-4234

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Abstract

The review article by Vally and Misso (1)
published in the current edition of this journal
outlines the broad range of signs and symptoms
associated with sulphite sensitivity. These include
bronchoconstriction, wheezing, dyspnea, nausea,
stomach cramps, diarrhoea, urticaria/angiodema,
diaphoresis, hives, laryngeal oedema, generalised
itching and swelling, tingling sensations, flushing,
hypotension, cyanosis, shock and loss of
consciousness (2). Many of the symptoms mirror
those of anaphylaxis. Indeed reactions to sulphites
can be life threatening, as a number of fatal cases
have been reported (3, 4). In many areas of the
world, sulphites are now one of the potential
allergens (along with the likes of peanuts, fish,
crustaceans, gluten and milk) that have to be labelled
on food and drink products. In the European Union
(EU), levels in foods and drinks above 10 mg/kg or
10 mg per litre have to be labelled. Warning labels
are now commonplace, yet in practice there is still a
huge amount of ignorance and misinformation about
the use of sulphites in food, drinks and
pharmaceutical products. Hence, Clinicians need to
be aware of sulphite sensitivity in order to enable
appropriate diagnosis and provide recommendations
for treatment.

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