A new study in the journal Pediatrics explores allergic reactions in pre-school aged children with food allergies. Over 500 infants, who were between the ages of 3 and 15 months when the study began, were followed for an average of three years. During that time, approximately 72% of all subjects experienced an allergic reaction to food, with over half of participants experiencing more than one reaction. Over 70% of reactions were triggered by three allergens: milk, egg, and peanut. Of note, more than 11% of these reactions were due to purposeful exposure to foods that should have been avoided. The study also found that even in severe reactions, only 30% of patients were treated with epinephrine (Epipen). When asked, caretakers most often said that they did not realize the severity of the reaction, did not have an Epipen available, or had fears about Epipen administration.
This study shows that more education is needed for those caring for food allergic individuals. The study’s authors suggested the following areas for improved education:
Please know that Grand Rapids Allergy is committed to providing the above education and much more. If you have any questions regarding food allergies, please do not hesitate to contact our office at 616-949-4840.
Link to article: http://pediatrics.aappublicati...
Sublingual Immunotherapy for Peanut Allergy and Induction of Tolerance (SLIT2)
ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT01373242
Study Location: Durham, NC Duke University
This study is recruiting participants aged 1-11 years old with a peanut specific IgE greater than 0.35 kU/L or a convincing clinical history of peanut allergy. To be included in the study, the patient must test also test positive to peanut during a DBPCFC (double blind, placebo controlled food challenges) to peanut protein. The study lasts 66 months (5 ½ years) and all study participants will receive peanut sublingual immunotherapy (SLIT) in the form of liquid peanut extract administered under the tongue for the first 48 months. After 48 months, the participants will be split into 3 groups- some participants will continue to receive peanut SLIT for an additional 6 or 12 months. Another group will receive a placebo for the remaining 12 months. At 66 months, all participants will undergo a final DBPCFC to see if there if any difference between the groups in the number patients who still tolerate peanut protein (i.e. have achieved clinical tolerance).
Oral Peanut Immunotherapy (PNOIT)
ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT01324401
Study Location: Boston, MA Massachusetts General Hospital
This study is recruiting participants 7-21 years old with peanut allergy diagnosed by a positive skin prick test with a wheal bigger than 8mm. Participants cannot have moderate or severe asthma. This study aims to desensitize patients to peanut protein using oral immunotherapy (OIT) and determine what, if any, immune changes occur. To compare, a control group of comparable patients will receive no treatment but will have follow-up visits every 6 months including a history and physical exam. The patients receiving peanut OIT will get increasing daily doses of peanut flour until a daily dose of 4000mg is attained. Then a double blind, placebo controlled food challenge will be performed consisting of a placebo and masked peanut protein. The study will last 36 months and will be closing enrollment shortly.
Peanut Oral Immunotherapy (OIT)- Initial Pilot Study In Adults
Clinical Trials.gov Identifier: NCT01274429
Study Location: Durham, NC Duke University
This study is recruiting participants 18-50 years old with a peanut allergy and serum IgE level greater than 0.35 kU/L and positive skin prick test. A double blind, placebo controlled food challenge will also be performed to confirm peanut allergy prior to entry into the study. Desensitization will be attempted initially via a modified rush (receiving several doses in one day). Then daily doses of peanut will be ingested with escalation visits every two weeks. Once a dose of 2300mg is reached, the patient will hold at this dose daily. A final double blind, placebo controlled food challenge will be conducted after 18 months of OIT identify desensitization. Enrollment will be closing shortly.
Peanut Allergy Oral Immunotherapy Desensitization
ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT01601522
Study Location: Ontario, Canada McMaster University
This study is recruiting participants 5-10 years old with a peanut allergy confirmed by history of symptoms within 60 minutes of ingestion of peanut, a positive skin prick test, and peanut IgE greater than 15 kU/L (or 7 kU/L if there has been a reaction to peanut within the past 6 months) Although the method of the study is unclear, it appears that participants will receive oral peanut immunotherapy.