Abstract
In order to identify predictors for oral food challenge test (OFC) outcomes in egg allergy, we retrospectively analyzed 408 egg challenge results conducted at a hospital and 2 clinics both by pediatric allergy specialists. Of 322 OFCs conducted at the hospital, 59.9% failed and of 86 cases at clinics, only 3.5% failed. Age, egg white-specific IgE (EW-IgE), the number of eliminated foods and history of anaphylaxis in patients who had OFC at the hospital were significantly higher than those at the clinics. In a subgroup of patients with moderate levels of EW-IgE, class 2 and 3, positive rate at the hospital was still higher than at the clinics. Even after matching the age in the group, the positive rate of OFC at the hospital was again higher than at the clinic. Multiple logistic regression analysis revealed that number of eliminated foods in patients aged 0-1 and comorbid atopic dermatitis and history of anaphylaxis in 2-3 years old were significant predictors for positive OFC. These results suggest that multiple food allergy, history of anaphylaxis and unremitting atopic dermatitis may be risk factors for OFC failure at moderate levels of EW-IgE.
