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Elimination diet in young children with atopic dermatitis
A Broberg1, I Engström, K Kalimo
1Department of Dermatology, University of Gothenburg, Sweden.
Acta Dermato-Venereologica
|September 1, 1992
Summary
Elimination diets can improve severe atopic dermatitis in children. Food challenges revealed delayed reactions to common allergens like egg, milk, and wheat in some participants.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Dermatology
- Clinical Nutrition
- Allergy Immunology
Background:
- Severe atopic dermatitis (AD) often requires multidisciplinary management.
- Topical treatments are insufficient for some children with severe AD.
- Dietary interventions are explored for refractory pediatric AD cases.
Observation:
- Twelve children (0.8-4.1 years) with severe AD adhered to an elimination diet for 2-4 weeks.
- Dermatologist assessments showed clear improvement in 6 children, minor improvement in 2, and no change in 4.
- Open food challenges (egg, milk, wheat) were conducted, with blinded assessment by the dermatologist.
Findings:
- The elimination diet led to significant clinical improvement in over half of the children studied.
- No immediate reactions occurred during food challenges.
- Three children experienced delayed hypersensitivity reactions to specific foods (egg, milk, or wheat).
Implications:
- Dietary elimination is a viable strategy for managing severe pediatric atopic dermatitis.
- Identifying specific food triggers through challenges can guide long-term management.
- Understanding delayed reactions is crucial for accurate diagnosis and treatment of food hypersensitivities in AD.