An emerging allergen: Cannabis sativa allergy in a climate of recent legalization

Abstract

Considering its recent legalization in Canada, the health implications of <i>Cannabis sativa</i> exposure, including allergy, are coming to the forefront of medical study and interest. <i>C. sativa</i> allergy is an issue that affects recreational users of the substance, processors, agricultural workers, and contacts of <i>Cannabis</i> aeroallergens and secondhand product. Allergies to <i>C. sativa</i> are heterogenous and span the spectrum of hypersensitivity, from dermatitis to rhinoconjunctivitis to life-threatening anaphylaxis. Due to its recent legalization, sensitized individuals will have increasing exposure from direct contact to agricultural pollens. Diagnosis and treatment of <i>Cannabis</i> allergy are developing fields that are already showing promise in the identification of culprit antigens and the potential for immunotherapy; however, much responsibility still falls on clinical diagnosis and symptom management. Hopefully, given the current explosion of interest in and use of <i>Cannabis</i>, <i>C. sativa</i> allergy will continue to garner awareness and therapeutic strategies.