[The role of food allergy in the development of rosacea]

Rosacea is a chronic skin disease in which a violation of its barrier function can lead to the penetration of various allergens that normally do not penetrate, and as a result, the development of sensitization. The study of the spectrum of sensitization to food allergens in patients with rosacea is especially relevant, since it can contribute to the discovery of new disease triggers and determine a personalized approach to therapy. The aim of the research was to study the features of the spectrum of sensitization to food and pollen (cross-reacting) allergens in patients with rosacea. Material and methods. The study involved patients with rosacea (group 1, n=30). The mean age of the patients was 36.0±2.6 years. The control group consisted of practically healthy patients comparable in terms of sex and age (group 2, n=20). All patients underwent a specific allergic examination: collection of an allergic anamnesis, skin prick testing with food and pollen allergens (Allergopharma, Germany) with an assessment of the magnitude of hyperemia (from + to ++++). Taking into account the results of a specific allergy testing, patients with rosacea were prescribed an individual elimination diet with the exclusion of causative allergens, including cross-reacting ones, for a period of 1 month. Results. The most significant food allergens in rosacea were rye and wheat flour proteins and egg yolk: 62.1, 46.7 and 47.8% of cases, respectively. Almost half of the patients showed sensitization to beef meat (46.1%), oats (42.9%), and soy (44.4%). The most common pollen allergens in the spectrum of sensitization in rosacea patients were meadow and grass pollen - 65.5% and 58.9%, respectively. A significant reduction in the severity of the inflammatory reaction on the face skin after a 4-week elimination diet was noted in 56.7% of patients. Conclusion. The positive clinical effect of eliminating causative allergens in rosacea confirms the role of food allergy in the pathology and justifies the need for joint efforts of allergist/immunologists and dermatologists in personalized diet therapy of patients.