immunology allergic disorders
Food Allergy
Introduction
Food allergy is an exaggerated immune response to dietary components, usually proteins. Manifestations vary widely and can include atopic dermatitis, gastrointestinal or respiratory symptoms, and anaphylaxis. Diagnosis is by history and sometimes allergen-specific serum IgE testing, skin testing, and/or elimination diets. Treatment is with elimination of the food that triggers the reaction and sometimes oral cromolyn. (See also Overview of Allergic and Atopic Disorders .) Food allergy should be distinguished from nonimmune reactions to food (eg, Carbohydrate Intolerance , 