From the Guidelines
Food allergies are primarily associated with Type I hypersensitivity reactions, also known as immediate hypersensitivity or IgE-mediated reactions. This type of reaction occurs when the immune system produces IgE antibodies specific to proteins in the allergenic food, which then bind to mast cells and basophils, triggering the release of inflammatory mediators like histamine upon re-exposure to the allergen 1. The symptoms of Type I hypersensitivity reactions can range from mild, such as hives and mild nausea, to severe, including anaphylaxis, which is a life-threatening condition characterized by diffuse hives, shortness of breath, and obstructive swelling of the tongue and/or lips that interferes with breathing 1. Some key points to consider in the diagnosis and management of food allergies include:
- The most common food allergens are milk, egg, wheat, soy, peanut, tree nut, finfish, and shellfish 1
- Diagnosis requires documentation of a clinical history of a food allergic reaction, as well as positive results from food-specific IgE tests and/or skin prick tests 1
- Treatment involves avoiding the allergenic food, as well as being prepared to respond to accidental exposure with antihistamines for mild reactions and an epinephrine autoinjector device for severe reactions 1 It's also important to note that while Type I hypersensitivity reactions are the primary mechanism involved in food allergies, other types of hypersensitivity reactions, such as Type IV (cell-mediated) reactions, may also play a role in certain conditions, like celiac disease 1. However, Type I hypersensitivity reactions are the most commonly associated with food allergies, and understanding this mechanism is crucial for providing effective diagnosis, treatment, and management of food allergic reactions 1.
From the FDA Drug Label
Emergency treatment of allergic reactions (Type I), including anaphylaxis, which may result from allergic reactions to insect stings, biting insects, foods, drugs, sera, diagnostic testing substances and other allergens, as well as idiopathic anaphylaxis or exercise-induced anaphylaxis. The type of hypersensitivity reaction associated with food allergy is Type I.
- This reaction can lead to anaphylaxis, a severe and potentially life-threatening condition. 2
From the Research
Hypersensitivity Reaction Associated with Food Allergy
- The type of hypersensitivity reaction associated with food allergy is mostly IgE mediated, also known as immediate type hypersensitivity or type I reaction 3, 4, 5, 6.
- This reaction is characterized by the production of IgE antibodies in response to specific food allergens, leading to symptoms such as itching, stomach pain, rash, and anaphylaxis 4, 5.
- Food allergy can be classified into two types: IgE-mediated and non-IgE-mediated, with IgE-mediated being the most common type 6.
- The most common food allergens include milk, eggs, peanuts, tree nuts, fish, and shellfish, and the severity of the reaction can vary depending on the type of food and mechanism 4, 6.