It is well known that foods can cause a variety of G-I complaints through a variety of non-immunologic and immunologic reactions. Type I (IgE) reactions cause a variety of disorders (Eosinophil Associated Gastrointestinal Disorders or EGIDs), one of which is the increasingly reported E.E.
In numerous studies, foods have been shown to be causative in E.E. While inhaled corticosteroids and perhaps other anti-inflammatory agents have been shown to be effective, identification and elimination of the food trigger provides a more direct approach. This is accomplished by a variety of testing methods, ie., serologic, prick and patch testing. This is 75%* effective. Elemental diets can be effective, but patient compliance is understandably poor.
Most of these patients have classic allergic involvement, ie., allergic rhinitis/sinusitis, asthma, etc., but it is not clear at this time if aero-allergens contribute to E.E. The role of specific immunotherapy, anti IgE monoclonal therapy, etc., is not clear and pilot studies are underway which, hopefully, will add insight. Until that time, antigen avoidance remains a crucial part of the treatment of E.E.
The physicians and staff of Allergy & Asthma Specialists, Ltd. would be pleased to assist you in the care of these patients.
*Spergel J.A.C.I. 2007 (119) p.504
Ann. All. & Imm. 2005: (95) p.336
About the Author
allergydocs.net