First IgE-Mediated Food Allergy Mapping in Algiers, Algeria: Clinical and Age-Specific Profiles

Despite the increasing prevalence of food allergies worldwide, Algeria remains severely underrepresented in WHO/FAO epidemiological databases, hampering evidence-based policymaking and harmonization of labeling protocols. This study addresses this gap and presents the first analysis of IgE-mediated food sensitization in Algiers (Algeria).

Sensitization to 29 food allergens was assessed in a cohort of 637 patients (2016-2019) using the AllergyScreen® immunoassay (MEDIWISS Analytic GmbH). Clinical and epidemiological datasets were statistically analyzed with two-way ANOVA and Tukey's HSD test to determine significant sensitization patterns.

Among the participants, 37.67% (n = 240) experienced sensitization to ≥1 allergen, with cow's milk F2 (12.56%), egg white F1 (5.5%), peanut F13 (4.7%), and shrimp F24 (4.55%) being the dominant triggers. Age-stratified analysis revealed significant disparities (p < 0.001): cow's milk allergy predominated in children (≤16 years), while shrimp sensitization peaked in adults (>16 years). Sex-specific trends highlighted elevated sensitization in women ≤16 years versus >16 years (p < 0.001) and men ≤16 years versus ≥40 years (p < 0.01), highlighting that age is a determining factor in allergic risk. Polysensitization was common, complicating the clinical management of atopic individuals.

As Algeria's first epidemiological mapping, this study delivers foundational data imperative for evidence-based allergy management, diagnostic refinement, and national food safety policy in alignment with global priorities.