Food allergy and atopic dermatitis connection

Monday, 20 June 2011 10:47

Early food sensitization has been found to be significantly associated with atopic dermatitis, and co-existent food allergy and atopic dermatitis affects children more often than adults. The development of early sensitization to allergens following direct skin exposure appears to be facilitated by functional defects in the skin’s outer layer.

Researchers have identified three different patterns of clinical reactions to food allergens in patients with atopic dermatitis: 1) immediate-type symptoms; 2) isolated eczematous late-type reactions; and 3) combined reactions.

Preventative measures for these conditions may include breastfeeding or feeding with hydrolyzed formula during the first 4 months of life.

Reference: Heratizadeh et al. 2011. Current Allergy and Asthma Reports. DOI 10.1007/s11882-011-0202-y