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[Bird-egg syndrome in children].
S Nevot Falcó1, R Casas Ramisa, R Lleonart Bellfill
1Unidad de Alergia. Servicio de Pediatría. Fundación Althaia. Hospital Sant Joan de Déu. Martesa. Barcelona, Spain.
Allergologia Et Immunopathologia
|June 5, 2003
Summary
Childhood egg allergy is common, often to egg white. Bird-egg syndrome, linked to bird protein sensitization, can cause persistent egg yolk allergy with respiratory and GI symptoms in children.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Pediatric Allergy
Background:
- Egg allergy is a frequent childhood condition, primarily involving reactions to egg white proteins like ovalbumin.
- While egg white allergens are common, sensitization to egg yolk can occur, particularly in the context of bird-egg syndrome.
Observation:
- Bird-egg syndrome involves cross-reactivity between bird antigens and egg yolk proteins, specifically chicken serum albumin (alpha-livetin).
- This syndrome, though more common in adults, presents distinct features in children, with a higher prevalence of gastrointestinal and respiratory symptoms over cutaneous ones.
Findings:
- In children, bird-egg syndrome is characterized by a greater tendency for sensitization to egg yolk compared to egg white.
- Egg allergy associated with bird-egg syndrome in children often shows increased persistence, with delayed tolerance development and a higher incidence of co-sensitization to other aeroallergens.
Implications:
- Understanding bird-egg syndrome is crucial for diagnosing and managing persistent allergic reactions in children exposed to bird antigens.
- Early identification and management strategies may be necessary for children with bird-egg syndrome due to its persistent nature and potential for broader allergic sensitization.