Acta Med. 2006, 49: 199-201

https://doi.org/10.14712/18059694.2017.132

Atopy Patch Test in the Diagnosis of Food Allergy in Children with Atopic Dermatitis

Miloš Jeseňák, Peter Bánovčin

Comenius University in Bratislava, Jessenius School of Medicine in Martin, Department of Paediatrics, Martin, Slovak Republic

Received March 1, 2006
Accepted November 1, 2006

Atopic eczema/dermatitis syndrome (AEDS) is one of the most common chronic allergic diseases in children. Among the allergens found to be relevant in AEDS, aeroallergens and food allergens are the most important. The exposure of these patients to their relevant protein allergens can trigger an exacerbation or maintain the disease. AEDS is frequently associated with food allergy, which complicates the management in approximately 40% of these children. Atopy patch test (APT) can help in detecting food allergies in children with AEDS. The earliest publication on patch testing in eczema was described in 1937 by Rostenberg, but the first controlled clinical trial was provided by Mitchell in 1982. APT with food allergens were introduced into clinical use in 1996 by the group of Isolauri. APT test is performed epicutaneously with typical immediate-type allergens (aeroallergens or foods). As a number of apparently minor test modifications greatly influence the sensitivity, specificity, and reproducibility of the APT, the European Task Force on Atopic Dermatitis (ETFAD) has developed a standardized APT technique. APT has developed into a valuable additional tool in the diagnostic work-up of food allergy in infants and children with atopic dermatitis.

References

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