OBJECTIVE: To determine prevalence, causes and risk factors of ADE in hospitalized patients. METHODS: Analytical, observational, case-control study of patients with ADE. For statistical analysis, the following were calcu...OBJECTIVE: To determine prevalence, causes and risk factors of ADE in hospitalized patients. METHODS: Analytical, observational, case-control study of patients with ADE. For statistical analysis, the following were calculated: percentages, frequencies, averages; odds ratio, χ test and multiple binary logistic regression. Data analysis was carried out with the Statistical Package, for the Social Sciences 23 program. RESULTS: A 132 patients were registered: 66 cases (26 EM and 40 RAM) and 66 controls; with average age of 35 years (SD 17.41). The prevalence of adverse drug events was 3.6%. The most frequently reported medications: antibiotics and anti-inflammatories. The frequency of adverse events by gender was: 39.3% men and 60.7% women. The services with the greatest patient care: emergencies, surgery; the most frequent route of administration: intravenous (32.3%). The main symptoms: skin. (32.3%) frequent symptoms: cutaneous. Associated symptoms RAM: type A pruritus (OR: 8.5; p = 0.001; IC95%: 0.035-0.393), type B pruritus (OR: 11; p = 0.001; CI95%: 0.021-0.368) urticaria (OR: 19; p = 0.005; IC95%: 0.007-0.412). Risk factors Associated EAM: female (OR: 2.6; p = 0.05; CI95%: 1.33-5.43), history of allergy (OR: 3.4; p = 0.033; CI95%: 1.04-8.40), prolonged hospital stays (OR: 5.4; p = 0.023; IC95%: 3.82-6.74). CONCLUSIONS: Patient safety is a priority when prescribing any drug, which represents a key point in prevention.
The interaction between genetic potential and the environment, especially increased urbanization and inadequate waste management, contributes to the manifestation of allergic diseases. Pediatric patients are the most vul...The interaction between genetic potential and the environment, especially increased urbanization and inadequate waste management, contributes to the manifestation of allergic diseases. Pediatric patients are the most vulnerable, due to the immaturity of the respiratory and immune systems. Prenatal and postnatal exposure to air pollutants, both indoors and outdoors, accelerates or aggravates morbidity and mortality from allergic diseases. The "exposome," which encompasses all environmental exposures throughout life, influences health. Biological and chemical attacks alter the epithelial barrier, triggering inflammatory responses and favoring allergic diseases, such as food allergies. The uncontrolled use of toxic fuels, particulate matter, detergents and other factors contribute to the continuous deterioration of the intestinal epithelial barrier, increasing the risk of allergic diseases. It is important to take urgent action to address these issues and protect the health of the planet.
The pollen-food allergy syndrome, also known as oral allergy syndrome, is characterized by local reactions in the mouth and throat after consuming certain raw plant foods in individuals sensitized to pollen from grass, w...The pollen-food allergy syndrome, also known as oral allergy syndrome, is characterized by local reactions in the mouth and throat after consuming certain raw plant foods in individuals sensitized to pollen from grass, weeds, and trees. Birch-apple is the prototype of this syndrome, with apple, pear, and plum being the most commonly associated foods. Symptoms are usually limited to the oral cavity but can include systemic reactions, including anaphylaxis. Sensitization to pollen allergens, such as lipid transfer proteins, profilin, and PR-10 proteins, triggers this syndrome. Its prevalence varies by geographic region and the predominant pollen type, affecting between 30% and 60% of food allergies. Diagnosis involves a clinical history, skin tests, and, in ambiguous cases, double-blind, placebo-controlled oral food challenges. Treatment primarily involves avoiding trigger foods.
Anaphylaxis, a potentially life-threatening reaction, is characterized by acute symptoms affecting various systems and requires immediate medical intervention. While the overall mortality rate is low, anaphylaxis induced...Anaphylaxis, a potentially life-threatening reaction, is characterized by acute symptoms affecting various systems and requires immediate medical intervention. While the overall mortality rate is low, anaphylaxis induced by foods and drugs has seen an increase. Common triggers include foods, drugs, and Hymenoptera venom. Epidemiology varies by region and age, with a global incidence of 50-112 episodes per 100,000 people annually. Implicated foods vary by age and region, with peanuts and nuts being common triggers. Two mechanisms of anaphylaxis are recognized: IgE-mediated and non-IgE-mediated. Diagnosis is based on clinical criteria and serum tryptase levels. Treatment includes epinephrine, oxygen, and intravenous fluids. Exercise-induced food-dependent anaphylaxis is addressed, where exercise, combined with certain foods, triggers anaphylactic reactions. Proper understanding and management are crucial to mitigate risks.
Despite promising advancements in oral immunotherapy for food allergies, medical implementation faces limitations. Non-specific treatment options based on inhibiting the type 2 inflammatory pathway, including monoclonal...Despite promising advancements in oral immunotherapy for food allergies, medical implementation faces limitations. Non-specific treatment options based on inhibiting the type 2 inflammatory pathway, including monoclonal antibodies, are under investigation. TNX-901 and omalizumab have demonstrated increased reaction thresholds, reducing adverse events in peanut-allergic patients. Dupilumab, blocking the IL-4 receptor, shows positive results in both food allergies and eosinophilic esophagitis. Antibodies against alarmins and anti-IL-5, such as etokimab and mepolizumab, have proven efficacy in preclinical studies and clinical trials. While further studies are needed to establish their practical clinical use and determine suitability for different types of food allergies, these monoclonal antibodies present a promising horizon for the treatment of such conditions.
Preventing food allergies is key to reducing the incidence of the disease. Exclusive breastfeeding is recommended during the first months of life, in addition to supplementation with vitamin D and, due to the importance...Preventing food allergies is key to reducing the incidence of the disease. Exclusive breastfeeding is recommended during the first months of life, in addition to supplementation with vitamin D and, due to the importance of the microbiota, addition of probiotics, prebiotics and symbiotic. Currently, late exposure to foods is controversial, and it is suggested to introduce allergenic foods early, trying not to expose the cutaneous route. The application of biologics in food allergy is an evolving area of research and treatment. Biologics are indicated in diseases evaluated in various studies, such as atopic dermatitis, and are approved by the FDA for prescription; However, its potential administration in the treatment of severe allergic reactions caused by food is still debated. These therapies may change the way food allergy is addressed in the future, but they are still in experimental stages and not widely available. Food anaphylaxis is a life-threatening allergic reaction that requires quick action. Prevention involves avoiding the triggering food, awareness of symptoms, and availability of epinephrine for immediate administration in case of a reaction.
In recent times, the primary approach to treating food allergies involved strict avoidance of the triggering allergen. Many considered this approach as lacking true treatment, leaving patients vulnerable to even small am...In recent times, the primary approach to treating food allergies involved strict avoidance of the triggering allergen. Many considered this approach as lacking true treatment, leaving patients vulnerable to even small amounts or hidden sources of the allergenic food. Desensitization or Oral Tolerance Induction (OTI) is a studied method aiming for a lasting tolerance to the allergen. The ultimate goal is permanent tolerance, where allergic reactions won't reoccur after new exposure to the triggering allergen, following a period of abstinence. The research mainly focuses on allergen-specific immunotherapy, covering three routes: oral, sublingual, and epicutaneous immunotherapy. Milk, egg, and peanuts are the extensively studied foods due to their prevalence in allergies. The oral route is favored for inducing tolerance because ingestion of a food antigen by a non-allergic individual triggers an active immune response without causing an allergic reaction. The paradigm has shifted from recommending avoidance to early consumption strategies to prevent allergies. The period from 4 to 6 months of age is considered immunologically sensitive, where children with risk factors show increased allergic sensitization risk. Implementing these recommendations, considering family and community preferences, may reduce the burden of food allergies and healthcare costs.
The treatment of food allergy involves completely removing the allergenic food from the diet, careful label reading, and ingredient awareness. Family education is crucial, understanding alternative names for the allergen...The treatment of food allergy involves completely removing the allergenic food from the diet, careful label reading, and ingredient awareness. Family education is crucial, understanding alternative names for the allergen. An emergency action plan provided by the doctor, with clear instructions for epinephrine application and when to seek medical attention, is essential. For mild to moderate symptoms, oral antihistamines may be prescribed. Psychological support is necessary due to emotional repercussions. Collaboration with an allergy specialist is crucial for personalized treatment. Natural tolerance to the food may be achieved, especially in non-IgE-mediated allergies. However, some allergic manifestations persist, requiring treatment alternatives. Avoidance of the allergen and epinephrine application are key measures. Immunotherapy aims to desensitize immune cells, but its effectiveness varies. Bioterapeutic agents, such as monoclonal antibodies, are under investigation, although their clinical use still requires more studies.
Food allergy is an immune response to proteins in food. It usually affects 8% of children and 2% of adults in Western countries. Non-IgE-mediated food allergy mainly affects the gastrointestinal tract. Gastrointestinal f...Food allergy is an immune response to proteins in food. It usually affects 8% of children and 2% of adults in Western countries. Non-IgE-mediated food allergy mainly affects the gastrointestinal tract. Gastrointestinal food allergies are classified, by their underlying pathogenesis, as: IgE-mediated, non-IgE-mediated, or mixed. The symptoms of patients with food protein-induced allergic proctocolitis originate from local inflammation of the distal colon, which causes hematochezia in neonates. It can affect the entire gastrointestinal tract and cause symptoms of intractable emesis, with subsequent metabolic disorders and hypovolemic shock. Food protein-induced enterocolitis syndrome is a non-IgE-mediated allergy that usually appears in childhood, with prolonged repetitive vomiting, starting 1 to 4 hours after ingestion of food. The manifestation in adults is usually triggered by the consumption of shellfish. Atopic diseases affect 40-60% of patients with food protein- induced enterocolitis syndrome, including 40-50% of those with food protein-induced enteropathy and proctocolitis. Probiotics (Lactobacillus GG) can alleviate the symptoms of allergic proctocolitis induced by food proteins, by altering the composition of the intestinal microbiota. Fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) can change intestinal microecology efficiently compared to food or probiotics.
The term food intolerance has been used non-specifically to define a wide range of disorders related to food intake. Recently, the use of the term "non-immunological adverse reactions to foods" (RANIAs) was recommended a...The term food intolerance has been used non-specifically to define a wide range of disorders related to food intake. Recently, the use of the term "non-immunological adverse reactions to foods" (RANIAs) was recommended as a more correct clinical definition. The pathophysiological mechanisms can be diverse, sometimes unknown, and there are no validated diagnostic tests, making it difficult to obtain accurate data. The clinical manifestations of non-immunological adverse reactions to foods affect more than one organ or system; and gastrointestinal symptoms (pain, abdominal distension, flatulence, and diarrhea) are the most common. Non-immunological adverse reactions to foods are divided into independent and dependent on host factors. Foods may contain chemicals with pharmacological activity and be present naturally, such as vasoactive amines (histamine) and salicylates, or added for preservation, to improve appearance or flavor (monosodium glutamate, tartrazine, sulfites, and benzoates). In some cases, these types of reactions may be like to hypersensitivity reactions. Concomitant alcohol consumption may worsen symptoms by inhibiting histamine breakdown and increasing intestinal permeability. In patients diagnosed with non-immunological adverse reactions to foods, it is important to rule out some psychological problems: aversions or eating disorders.
It is important to establish the differential diagnosis of food allergy with other disorders, for example: toxic reactions that occur in any person exposed to a sufficient amount of some allergen, and non-toxic reactions...It is important to establish the differential diagnosis of food allergy with other disorders, for example: toxic reactions that occur in any person exposed to a sufficient amount of some allergen, and non-toxic reactions that depend on individual susceptibility (food allergy or intolerance). The differential diagnosis is decisive to establish the appropriate treatment. Food intolerance involves adverse reactions to foods without any immunological response involved, and commonly manifests with gastrointestinal symptoms (malaise, abdominal pain or diarrhea). Food allergy is an exaggerated reaction of the immune system, often mediated by IgE, that can trigger serious symptoms (hives, inflammation, respiratory distress, even anaphylaxis). The complex thing is because the symptoms sometimes overlap. To establish an accurate diagnosis, exhaustive clinical evaluation, laboratory tests and, in some cases, controlled provocation tests are required. It is important to understand these distinctions, because treatment and management vary significantly. Food intolerance involves the elimination or reduction of the food that triggers the allergic reaction and requires rigorous measures (complete avoidance of the allergen and availability of epinephrine in cases of severe reactions).
Oral provocation tests involve the supervised administration of suspected foods in increasing doses to evaluate a patient's allergic condition. Acknowledged as the superior method for diagnosing food allergies, it surpas...Oral provocation tests involve the supervised administration of suspected foods in increasing doses to evaluate a patient's allergic condition. Acknowledged as the superior method for diagnosing food allergies, it surpasses results from specific IgE serum or prick tests, which indicate sensitization but not necessarily allergy. The test is indicated in cases of diagnostic uncertainty, assessment of natural or induced tolerance, or cross-reactivity risks. Three types of tests exist: open, single-blind, and double-blind with a placebo. While the latter two reduce anxiety, open tests are more practical for children under three.
Food allergens are capable of producing adverse reactions through multiple mechanisms of an allergic or non-allergic nature, and through different routes of exposure; generally by ingestion or contact, as in protein cont...Food allergens are capable of producing adverse reactions through multiple mechanisms of an allergic or non-allergic nature, and through different routes of exposure; generally by ingestion or contact, as in protein contact dermatitis or contact urticaria, including inhalation. Food allergy reactions, in turn, can be mediated by immediate hypersensitivity mechanisms, delayed hypersensitivity or mixed immediate-delayed mechanisms. The reference diagnostic method in food allergy is the double-blind placebo-controlled food challenge test (DBPCFC), but skin and serological tests are important in the clinical context. The diagnosis of immediate food allergy depends on well-standardized allergological tests, such as the skin prick test (SPT) or specific IgE dosing, which are ideally tested by food challenge testing. However, the diagnosis of delayed mechanism food allergy and mixed allergies, which combine both immune mechanisms, is more complex. Delayed hypersensitivity reactions are evaluated with the epicutaneous patch test, or patch testing, for the diagnosis of contact dermatitis. The atopy patch test is initially used for the investigation of inflammatory reactions, which may be linked to food allergens in patients with atopic dermatitis. It was later applied in other diseases, whose pathogenesis is mainly mediated by a mechanism of delayed hypersensitivity to protein allergens: eosinophilic esophagitis, enterocolitis induced by food proteins, protein contact dermatitis, contact urticaria, among other disorders.
skin tests; Sensitization; IgE-mediated allergy; allergenic extract. After the discovery of IgE, technological advances have provided new laboratory tools for the quantification of allergen-specific IgE antibodies in ser...skin tests; Sensitization; IgE-mediated allergy; allergenic extract. After the discovery of IgE, technological advances have provided new laboratory tools for the quantification of allergen-specific IgE antibodies in serum and on the surface of basophils-mast cells. In vitro testing offers numerous advantages: accurate quantitation, lack of drug interference, safety, and long-term storage of samples. Quantitative immunoassays for IgE antibodies can be an adjunct to skin testing. The allergen reagent in solid phase (allergosorbent) or liquid is the main component of the assay that confers specificity to the IgE antibody test. It is the most complex and highly variable reagent in IgE antibody assays. The choice to use diagnostic recombinants on a single rather than multiple platforms is made on a case-by-case basis (considering prior history and clinical profile) and in an allergen-dependent manner. Although most food allergies are limited to a small number of possible triggers, these foods are very complex when evaluating their allergenic potential. The possibility of fractionating the allergen and understanding some of its components as potentially important to define the risk of clinical reaction, cross-reactivity, or persistence of allergy, opened a new era in the field of allergy, called molecular allergy. The identification of the allergenic component responsible for the reactions is an important tool to confirm the information and severity of the symptoms, natural history of the disease, possibility of cross-reactivity and clinical symptoms (allergy markers).
Skin tests, also known as prick tests, in food allergies are restricted to IgE-mediated food allergies, with results that barely indicate sensitization to a certain food and do not necessarily suggest food allergy. The c...Skin tests, also known as prick tests, in food allergies are restricted to IgE-mediated food allergies, with results that barely indicate sensitization to a certain food and do not necessarily suggest food allergy. The clinical context of the patient is the decisive point before performing any type of food allergy skin test; Contextualizing and relating the patient's clinical picture with the immunological mechanism of IgE-mediated allergies will allow a better selection of the allergy test for each case. Positive tests should be interpreted more carefully, and consider that during early childhood it is common that several patients may have negative specific serum IgE tests in the blood for food allergens compared to those performed on the skin, which are positive. Skin testing can be carried out with standardized strata of foods, but they are not always available for all foods and some are very unstable. Skin tests can even be performed with raw foods, using the prick to prick technique to perform the puncture with fresh foods (especially fruits or vegetables) or other products that are not commercially available. The skin prick test is a test where, after having placed the allergenic extract in drops or with fresh food itself, the puncture must be carried out with a standardized lancet.
The close relationship between the microbiota and allergic diseases has been known for several years, particularly food allergy. Although the best studied microbiota is that related to bacteria, viruses, parasites and fu...The close relationship between the microbiota and allergic diseases has been known for several years, particularly food allergy. Although the best studied microbiota is that related to bacteria, viruses, parasites and fungi are also constituents of this, although their role is not definitively clarified. The microbial world interacts with the human body constantly, we are in daily contact with an infinite and innumerable number of varieties of microbes in our environment, some of them can pass through the body without causing any harm, while others generate undesirable risk for the body. health. Alteration of the original composition of the microbiota (dysbiosis) is associated with food allergy. This dysbiosis is related to changes in habits, method of termination of pregnancy (birth or cesarean section), replacement of breastfeeding or interruption at an early age; decrease in family size; loss of contact with farm animals or pets; inappropriate prescription or abuse of antibiotics. The transition from a diet based exclusively on milk to one with solid foods is associated with a drastic increase in microbial diversity. Immunomodulatory components of the microbiota (cell surface polysaccharides), dietary factors (vitamin A), and production of secondary metabolites (short-chain fatty acids and secondary bile acid metabolites) promote differentiation of the RORγt+ cell population Treg. ILC3 produces IL-2, which plays a decisive role in maintaining intestinal homeostasis.
The most effective method for diagnosing food allergy is the clinical history, which includes anamnesis and physical examination. The anamnesis must include a directed and detailed questioning, and together with the phys...The most effective method for diagnosing food allergy is the clinical history, which includes anamnesis and physical examination. The anamnesis must include a directed and detailed questioning, and together with the physical examination, it will provide the necessary data to guide the diagnosis and suggest whether the pathophysiology is mediated or not by IgE, which is relevant for the selection and interpretation of the tests. specific and establish the accurate diagnosis, in addition to evaluating the possibility of distinguishing between the different differential diagnoses. It is important to assess the clinical history, because no in vivo or in vitro test is relevant if it is not confirmed with it. Even if there is a strong history of food allergy detected in the history, positive tests can confirm the diagnosis without the need for oral challenge, thus avoiding the risk and cost of performing it. The expression of food allergy is influenced by non-modifiable risk factors that include sex, race and genetics (familial), and modifiable factors: atopic dermatitis, vitamin D deficiency, diet high in polyunsaturated fats and deficient in antioxidants, consumption of antacid drugs, obesity, increased hygiene, influence of the microbiota, time and route of food exposure (increased risk by delaying oral ingestion of allergens and concomitant environmental exposure of the same that leads to sensitization and allergy).
Food allergy is a common event, especially in the pediatric population, affecting between 3-6% of children. There are various challenges in the care of patients with food allergy, but certainly the diversity of symptoms...Food allergy is a common event, especially in the pediatric population, affecting between 3-6% of children. There are various challenges in the care of patients with food allergy, but certainly the diversity of symptoms and the outcome of the disease are important aspects in the treatment of patients, in the development of care guidelines and in the knowledge of the Natural history of disease. The classification into phenotypes allows a better understanding of the evolution of food allergy. The endotype is a subtype of a phenotype defined by its pathophysiological characteristic. Genetic, epigenetic, and environmental characteristics interfere with the construction of the phenotype and its possible endotypes. Understanding the phenotypes and endotypes of food allergies brings with it two fundamental aspects: 1) the need to understand that the analysis of phenotypes and endotypes in food allergies will allow establishing prognoses and helping in intervention with specific therapies, and 2) the importance of understanding The characterization of local endotypes and phenotypes, and the dietary diversity of the different countries that make up Latin America brings with it a varied menu of foods that may pose a risk of allergy that needs to be studied.
Food allergy is an adverse reaction to certain foods that have demonstrated "immunological mechanisms"; therefore, this term covers both food allergies mediated or not by immunoglobulin E (IgE). The common pathophysiolog...Food allergy is an adverse reaction to certain foods that have demonstrated "immunological mechanisms"; therefore, this term covers both food allergies mediated or not by immunoglobulin E (IgE). The common pathophysiological mechanism among forms of allergy to foods mediated or not by IgE is found in the failure of clinical and immunological tolerance towards that food. The induction and maintenance of immunological tolerance depends on the active generation of regulatory T cells specific for food antigens. This process is influenced by genetic factors (FOXP3 genes) and epigenetic factors conditioned by the environment (diet, microbiota, and their products). Since the intestinal microbiome can normally promote oral tolerance, current evidence suggests that perturbations of the microbiome may correlate, or even predispose, with food allergy. Understanding the pathogenic mechanism underlying IgE-mediated food allergies allows the implementation of measures aimed at restoring clinical and immunological tolerance. Knowledge of the mechanisms of food allergy will improve the outlook for patients with more severe immediate food allergies and anaphylaxis, as well as those who have comorbidities (atopic dermatitis, eosinophilic esophagitis and EGEIDs).
The prevalence of food allergy has increased in some regions of the world, and with it the incidence, according to geographical variability, in the phenotype and clinical manifestations. Food allergy arises from the spec...The prevalence of food allergy has increased in some regions of the world, and with it the incidence, according to geographical variability, in the phenotype and clinical manifestations. Food allergy arises from the specific immune response induced by exposure to the proteins of a certain food. Food intolerance refers to non-immune reactions, caused by unique physiological characteristics of the individual, including metabolic, toxic, pharmacological and undefined mechanisms. Adverse reactions to foods are classified as: IgE-mediated: Type I Hypersensitivity, non-IgE-mediated: Type IV Hypersensitivity, mixed: Types I and IV Hypersensitivity Non-Allergic; toxic, pharmacological, metabolic, intolerances. These types of alterations are rare but have increased in recent years; These include protein-induced enterocolitis syndrome, which can cause emesis, diarrhea and hypotension, and shock, which begins two hours after ingestion of the allergen. Protein-induced allergic proctocolitis is a condition that includes allergy to cow's milk protein. Delayed reactions usually affect the digestive system, are more insidious in their onset and are not immediately controlled, even with the suspension of food. There are eight foods responsible for 90% of food allergies: milk, eggs, soy, wheat, peanuts, walnuts, fish, and shellfish.