On the reliability of RAST in childhood food allergy

144 children, showing adverse reactions to cow's milk and/or egg, were studied retrospectively. The case finding criteria used was positive elimination and challenge tests with the offending food (s). Specific IgE against the offending food(s) were found in 70% of cases, the majority of whom exhibited early-onset symptoms. RAST seems to be a useful laboratory test in food allergy characterized by early-onset symptoms. Likewise, RAST may be a valuable tool when severe reactions following the ingestion of food are suspected, and dangerous challenge tests are to be avoided.