Difficulties in interpretation of oral food challenge results

Postepy Dermatol Alergol. 2021 Oct;38(5):721-726. doi: 10.5114/ada.2021.106248. Epub 2021 Nov 5.

Abstract

Oral food challenge is the gold standard in diagnosing food allergies; however, many testing protocols are available. The present article illustrates the difficulties associated with interpreting oral challenge tests with the example of a six-year-old boy with allergy to hen's eggs. The symptoms observed on the first day of challenge indicated a negative result; however, the consumption of the cumulative dose resulted in anaphylaxis. The interpretation of the oral food challenge can be complicated. The criteria used to determine a positive or negative result are sometimes ambiguous. An accurate interpretation of the results is key to determining correct management in children with food allergy.

Keywords: baked egg; child; diagnosis; egg allergy; food allergy; oral food challenge.

Publication types

  • Review