Food allergy in adults

Area of Science:

• Immunology
• Allergology
• Clinical Medicine

Background:

• Rising prevalence of food allergies globally.
• Food allergies pose a significant risk, potentially causing fatal anaphylaxis, particularly in adolescents and young adults.
• Focus on Immunoglobulin E (IgE)-mediated food allergies.

Purpose of the Study:

• Review diagnostic and management strategies for IgE-mediated food allergies.
• Provide an anaphylaxis treatment algorithm.
• Discuss the role of general practitioners and long-term patient support.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of diagnostic and management strategies.
• Development of a treatment algorithm for anaphylaxis.
• Guidance on patient support and self-management.

Main Results:

• Accurate diagnosis is fundamental for effective allergen avoidance.
• Inadvertent exposure necessitates prompt patient self-management.
• Adrenaline administration is critical for life-threatening reactions.

Conclusions:

• Key management involves allergen avoidance based on accurate diagnosis.
• Patients must be prepared for prompt self-management of accidental exposures.
• Adrenaline, anaphylaxis action plans, and asthma control are vital for managing severe food allergy reactions.