[Food allergies: significance, interfaces, and prospects in otorhinolaryngology]

Perceived and objective food hypersensitivity reactions are increasing steadily in the western countries. Therefore, otorhinolaryngologists are facing more frequently the challenge to evaluate individual food hypersensitivity reactions, to set these reactions into context with otorhinolaryngologic symptoms and to start systemic and appropriate diagnostic procedures and possibly therapy. Although a good portion of the perceived food hypersensitivity reactions can neither be objectivated nor causaly linked to the occurring symptoms, the recent literature provides documentation, suggestions and prospects for the link between food hypersensitivity reactions and distinct ENT-diseases. Based on that, this review intends to provide an overview of the current knowledge about the impact of food hypersensitivity reactions on otorhinolaryngologic diseases. The aim of the article is to give support in assessing this intricate issue in the daily otorhinolaryngological practice.