Cultivated Corn, G202

A grass species producing pollen, which may induce hayfever, asthma and conjunctivitis in sensitised individuals. Maize pollen is found in lower concentrations in aerobiological studies because of its density. Nevertheless, individuals exposed to this pollen may have asthma, allergic rhinitis and allergic conjunctivitis induced.

Respiratory allergy is the most frequently produced by maize, and is associated more with the management of the grain than with its ingestion. Although not many studies describing maize pollen allergy have been reported to date, anecdotal evidence suggests that maize pollen can often induce allergic symptoms. 

Although maize pollen is abundantly produced, it is found in low concentrations as airborne pollen because of its weight. In fact, most maize pollen falls within 50-70m from the source, so it has been widely assumed to be a minor agent of pollen allergy. However, it is possible that strong winds may carry maize pollen much further from source. 

It is important to differentiate symptoms from exposure to maize dust from those as a result of exposure to maize pollen. The dust of stored maize has been reported to be a cause of respiratory symptoms. During the storage process, maize corn dust may be contaminated by moulds and thermophilic actinomycetes. These may result in occupational hypersensitivity pneumonitis. The symptoms included various combinations of oral and ear itching, sneezing, cough, and wheezing. 

• Postpone the process of testing immediately after paraclinical studies (roentgen, TC, MRI) and physiotherapy procedures. They can affect test results.

• We recommend avoiding physical activity prior to your examination.