Current understanding of egg allergy

Pediatr Clin North Am. 2011 Apr;58(2):427-43, xi. doi: 10.1016/j.pcl.2011.02.014.

Abstract

Egg is one of the most important allergens in childhood feeding, and egg allergy can pose quality-of-life concerns. A clear clinical history and the detection of egg white-specific immunoglobulin E (IgE) will confirm the diagnosis of IgE-mediated reactions. Non-IgE-mediated symptoms, such as those of eosinophilic diseases of the gut, might also be observed. Egg avoidance and education regarding the treatment of allergic reactions are the cornerstones of management of egg allergy. This article discusses epidemiology, risk factors, diagnosis, treatment, and natural history of egg allergy.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Child
  • Cross Reactions / immunology
  • Diagnosis, Differential
  • Egg Hypersensitivity / diagnosis
  • Egg Hypersensitivity / epidemiology
  • Egg Hypersensitivity / immunology*
  • Egg Hypersensitivity / prevention & control
  • Egg Proteins / immunology
  • Emergency Treatment / methods
  • Humans
  • Immunoglobulin E / immunology*
  • Patient Education as Topic
  • Risk Factors
  • Vaccines / immunology

Substances

  • Egg Proteins
  • Vaccines
  • Immunoglobulin E