Reintroduction of Food Allergens Following Negative Oral Food Challenges: A Pediatric Study

Document Type

Conference Proceeding

Publication Date

2-1-2025

Publication Title

J Allergy Clin Immunol

Abstract

Rationale: Reintroducing allergen-containing foods consistently after negative oral food challenges (OFCs) is crucial for preventing the recurrence of allergies. Notably, several pediatric cases have demonstrated the reemergence of peanut allergies, possibly due to the inadequate reintroduction of peanuts or peanut-containing foods. Methods: This study involved twenty families with children aged 6 or younger who underwent OFCs at the ProMedica Allergy and Immunology Clinic in Perrysburg, Ohio, from January to May 2024. On the day of the OFC, parents provided informed consent. Follow-up sessions occurred weekly for four weeks post-OFC. Results: Among thirteen children with negative OFCs, nine were successfully reintroduced the allergens at least once a week starting the week following their OFCs. Three children were not reintroduced the allergens (one with milk and two with peanut) until two weeks post-OFC. One child was not reintroduced baked egg during the entire follow-up period. Based on the Precaution Adoption Process Model, the four families who delayed reintroduction were either unengaged with the issue, contemplated but chose not to reintroduce, or decided to reintroduce but had not yet done so. One family reported that they were scared about the reintroduction process and fear about the adverse outcomes. Conclusions: The findings underscore the complexities and challenges families face in reintroducing allergens after negative OFCs. These results highlight the need for enhanced educational interventions and support systems to facilitate the consistent and timely reintroduction of allergens in pediatric patients. Such measures could potentially prevent the recurrence of allergies and improve long-term health outcomes.

Volume

155

Issue

2

First Page

AB175

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