Food Protein-Induced Enterocolitis Syndrome Across Lifespan: Focus on Adolescence

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Gastroenterology and Allergy
• Immunology
• Adolescent Medicine

Background:

• Food protein-induced enterocolitis syndrome (FPIES) is a delayed hypersensitivity disorder typically seen in infants, characterized by repeated vomiting.
• While historically considered a pediatric condition, FPIES is increasingly recognized in adolescents and adults, presenting as either a continuation of childhood disease or new-onset cases.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the unique characteristics of FPIES across different age groups, with a specific focus on adolescent FPIES.
• To provide an updated overview of recent research concerning FPIES in adolescents.

Main Methods:

• A literature review of English-language papers on adolescent FPIES, sourced from PubMed.

Main Results:

• Limited data exists on FPIES in adolescents.
• Multiple food sensitivities in FPIES patients can negatively impact nutritional status.
• Potential diagnostic biomarkers (genomic, immunologic, mucosal, microbiota) are under investigation, but age-specific diagnostic algorithms are lacking, complicating the understanding of persistent FPIES.

Conclusions:

• Developing shared transition medicine protocols tailored for adolescents is crucial.
• These protocols could enhance understanding of the clinical, pathophysiological, diagnostic, and therapeutic aspects of FPIES during this critical life stage.