Epicutaneous peanut patch device for the treatment of peanut allergy

Food allergy prevalence has increased in recent decades, which has mobilized efforts to develop treatment alternatives. Epicutaneous immunotherapy (EPIT) is a novel method that involves transdermal administration of peanut allergen with the objective to induce tolerance. Recent clinical trials have shown its efficacy at increasing the eliciting dose in children with a favorable safety profile. Areas covered: This review covers the proposed mechanism of action of EPIT in murine models and humans, efficacy and safety data from clinical trials with peanut EPIT, and a discussion on its potential role in the future management of peanut allergy. Expert opinion: With the recent completion of pivotal trials for peanut EPIT and upcoming marketing, the main question for clinicians and food allergic patients is how to define its role in the management of peanut allergy and how it compares to oral immunotherapy (OIT). Like OIT, EPIT seems to promote immunological tolerance over time. However, EPIT could lack the rapid mast-cell desensitization induced by the progressive intake of food in OIT, which explains differences in short-term outcomes and safety profiles. Head-to-head and long-term comparison of real-life efficacy with regards to sustained unresponsiveness will help define its place in the food allergy arsenal.