Emerging Food Allergy Treatments

Abstract

Immunoglobulin E (IgE)-mediated food allergy affects up to 8% of the pediatric population and occurs when a person develops antibodies to specific food proteins resulting in immediate reaction upon ingestion of the food in question. Current treatment revolves around strict allergen avoidance and prompt treatment of systemic, anaphylactic reactions with injectable epinephrine. However, despite strict avoidance, unexpected reactions are a significant problem. Therefore, therapeutic options for treatment of food allergy are in high demand. This article focuses on emerging therapies including oral immunotherapy, sublingual immunotherapy, epicutaneous immunotherapy, and possible adjunct therapies for the treatment and desensitization of IgE-mediated food allergy. [Pediatr Ann. 2019;48(12):e468-e472.].