Cardamom is an aromatic spice used around the world in teas, coffee, curries, baked goods, desserts, and spice blends. Although cardamom allergy is rare, true allergic reactions have been reported, including potentially serious systemic reactions. For patients who develop unexplained symptoms after eating Indian, Middle Eastern, Scandinavian, or other heavily spiced foods, cardamom may be […]
Dr. Alan Khadavi Recognized as Top Allergist in Southern California
Alan O. Khadavi, M.D. has been selected to the **2027 Southern California Super Doctors®** list in Allergy & Immunology. The Super Doctors list recognizes outstanding physicians who have attained a high degree of peer recognition and professional achievement — only about 5% of doctors in the region are selected each year through a rigorous process […]
Which Biologic Works Best for Nasal Polyps?
Patients with chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps (CRSwNP) now have more biologic treatment options than ever before. These medications target specific parts of the immune system that contribute to chronic inflammation, nasal congestion, loss of smell, and the growth of nasal polyps. But with several biologics available—and additional treatments being studied—an increasingly important question is: […]
Xolair vs. Omlyclo: Cost, Effectiveness, Insurance & Switching
Patients who take Xolair (omalizumab) for asthma, chronic hives, nasal polyps, or food allergies may soon hear another name from their allergist or insurance company: Omlyclo (omalizumab-igec). Omlyclo is the first biosimilar to Xolair available in the United States, and because biologic medications can be expensive, its arrival could significantly change how insurance companies cover […]
Tapioca Allergy: Can Cassava Cause an Allergic Reaction?
Tapioca has become increasingly common in the American diet. It is found in bubble tea, tapioca pudding, gluten-free baked goods, cassava flour products, tortillas, breads, snacks, and many grain-free foods. But can someone actually be allergic to tapioca? The answer is yes, although true cassava and tapioca allergy appears to be rare. What makes this […]
Rhapsido for Symptomatic Dermographism: An Allergist Explains the New FDA-Approved Treatment
On October 7, 2026, the FDA approved Rhapsido (remibrutinib) for adults with symptomatic dermographism whose symptoms remain inadequately controlled with H1 antihistamines. As an allergist, I consider this an important development because symptomatic dermographism has historically had remarkably few treatment options. Symptomatic dermographism is a form of chronic inducible urticaria in which scratching, rubbing, pressure […]
Most Effective Treatments for Severe Atopic Dermatitis: New Rankings
Treatment for severe atopic dermatitis, also known as eczema, has changed dramatically over the past several years. Patients who previously had relatively few options now have multiple highly effective biologic medications and oral targeted therapies. A recent article published in Annals of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology, titled “How We Treat Severe Atopic Dermatitis,” by Ellen […]
Should Airlines Be Required to Carry Epinephrine? An Allergist Explains
Should Every Airplane Carry Epinephrine? Why an Allergist Says the Answer Is Yes As an allergist practicing in the United States, I regularly counsel patients with food allergies and other conditions that put them at risk for anaphylaxis. One of the most common questions I hear before a trip is: “What happens if I have […]
Ketotifen for MCAS: Uses, Benefits, Side Effects, and U.S. Availability
Patients with mast cell disorders can experience symptoms affecting many different parts of the body, including itching, flushing, hives, abdominal discomfort, diarrhea, nasal symptoms, headaches, and episodes of lightheadedness or rapid heartbeat. Treatment often focuses on blocking the substances released by mast cells and reducing their effects on the body. One medication sometimes used as […]
Tyra Banks Cat Allergy: Do Allergy Shots Work?
Supermodel, television personality, and entrepreneur Tyra Banks has been reported to have a significant allergy to cats. Interestingly, a cat allergy was even incorporated into her novel Modelland, whose main character, Tookie, is allergic to cats. Banks has also spoken publicly about struggling with allergies and keeping several allergy medications on hand to control sneezing. […]