Allergy in children

Two important and common allergic disorders of childhood, allergic rhinoconjunctivitis and asthma, are reviewed. Pertinent clinical features and laboratory evaluations useful in establishing their diagnosis are presented, with emphasis on items unique or relevant to children. Newer treatment approaches, both pharmacologic and nonpharmacologic, are discussed, focusing mainly on outpatient management. Finally, a brief overview of immunotherapy and food hypersensitivity in children is given.