Chapter 4　prediction and prevention of food allergy

Abstract

 Several studies on risk factors for food allergy (FA) onset have reported about family history, genetic predisposition, skin barrier function, and season of birth. The presence of atopic dermatitis is especially an important risk factor. With respect to prevention of FA, guidelines do not recommend food elimination as a preventive measure in pregnant and lactating mothers. Additionally, the delay in the introduction of specific foods into the diet of high-risk infants is not recommended because it does not reduce the risk of FA onset. There are both positive and negative reports on the impact of exclusive breastfeeding in preventing FAs, and sufficient evidence does not exist to support either. As a compromised skin barrier and the presence of dermatitis constitute percutaneous sensitization risk to food antigens, the possibility that skin care regimens aimed towards active eczema control against atopic dermatitis can decrease allergen sensitization and subsequent allergy march has been considered ; however, at present, evidence supporting this possibility is scarce.