What mechanism underlies a true yeast allergy compared to yeast intolerance?
Immune system response involving antibody and histamine release
A true yeast allergy is fundamentally an immune system malfunction where the body identifies proteins present within yeast cells as foreign pathogens. This recognition triggers the production of specific antibodies designed to neutralize the perceived threat. This immune cascade results in the release of chemical mediators, primarily histamine, which are responsible for classic allergic symptoms such as hives, respiratory distress, or potentially severe anaphylaxis. In stark contrast, yeast intolerance is not mediated by the immune system; instead, it manifests primarily as gastrointestinal distress, arising from the body's struggle to efficiently digest the yeast organism or its metabolic byproducts through normal digestive processes.
