urtica dioica pollen

Urtica dioica pollen, derived from the common nettle, is an environmental allergen that can cause allergic rhinitis (pollinosis) in sensitized individuals. While historically considered to have low allergenic potential compared to other members of the Urticaceae family like Parietaria, recent studies have identified specific allergenic proteins within the pollen, including a thaumatin-like protein (osmotin) and pectinesterase. In clinical practice, extracts of the pollen are used as diagnostic agents in skin prick tests and nasal provocation tests to identify sensitization. It is also a candidate for allergen-specific immunotherapy (ASIT) to desensitize patients with confirmed nettle pollen allergy.

Other names

nettle pollencommon nettle pollen