How to actively treat food allergy

Curr Opin Allergy Clin Immunol. 2018 Jun;18(3):248-257. doi: 10.1097/ACI.0000000000000450.

Abstract

Purpose of review: In the last years, food allergy treatment is moving away from food avoidance to interventional treatments. We review here the recent developments on immunotherapy with food allergens.

Recent findings: Oral immunotherapy remains the best studied form of food immunotherapy. In 2017, further evidence has been added to its efficacy. Its mechanisms of action are under scrutiny. To reduce its side effects, studies have been dedicated to the simultaneous use of biologics, in particular omalizumab. Among the other forms of food immunotherapy that are being developed, the epicutaneous application of food allergens is promising.

Summary: The immunologic trajectories of the development of food tolerance may be intercepted by different forms of food immunotherapy. Research efforts aim to make these therapies feasible at the clinical level.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Administration, Oral
  • Administration, Sublingual
  • Allergens / administration & dosage*
  • Biological Products / therapeutic use
  • Food / adverse effects
  • Food Hypersensitivity / immunology
  • Food Hypersensitivity / therapy*
  • Humans
  • Immune Tolerance / drug effects
  • Immune Tolerance / immunology
  • Immunoglobulin E / immunology
  • Immunotherapy / methods*
  • Omalizumab / therapeutic use*
  • Transdermal Patch

Substances

  • Allergens
  • Biological Products
  • Omalizumab
  • Immunoglobulin E