How to diagnose IgE-mediated food allergy

Lieberman J, Muraro A, Blaiss M. Arch Dis Child Educ Pract Ed. 2024 Mar 7:edpract-2023-325938. doi: 10.1136/archdischild-2023-325938. 

Abstract

Immunoglobulin E (IgE)-mediated food allergy is an immune response, typically to a food protein. Accurate diagnosis reduces unnecessary dietary restrictions and economic and psychological burden on patients and caregivers but relies on a rigorous clinical history, specific IgE diagnostic tests and, where needed, oral food challenge. Increased awareness is needed around which patients to test for IgE-mediated food allergy, as well as terms commonly associated with IgE-mediated food allergy testing, in order to optimise patient diagnosis and management. Herein, we describe approaches to diagnosis of IgE-mediated food allergy, appropriate interpretation of results and risks of overtesting.

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