Allergy and the Pediatric Otolaryngologist

Abstract

Food allergy and allergic rhinitis are childhood diseases with special relevance to the pediatric otolaryngologist. Much of the diagnosis of food allergy can be made on history alone; strict avoidance is the mainstay treatment. Skin prick testing and serum-specific IgE testing play a stronger role in allergic rhinitis diagnosis. If pharmacotherapy fails, allergen immunotherapy is an option. Currently, there is intense investigation on diagnostic tests, novel treatments, and prevention strategies that could dramatically affect the way these diseases are identified and managed. This article summarizes the epidemiology, pathophysiology, diagnosis, and management of food allergy and allergic rhinitis.

Keywords: Allergic rhinitis; Avoidance; Food allergy; Oral food challenge; Skin prick testing; Specific IgE; Subcutaneous immunotherapy; Sublingual immunotherapy.