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Eosinophilic gastrointestinal disorders and allergen immunotherapy: Lights and shadows
Author(s) -
Votto Martina,
De Filippo Maria,
Caminiti Lucia,
Carella Francesco,
Castro Giovanna,
Landi Massimo,
Olcese Roberta,
Vernich Mario,
Marseglia Gian Luigi,
Ciprandi Giorgio,
Barberi Salvatore
Publication year - 2021
Publication title -
pediatric allergy and immunology
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.269
H-Index - 89
eISSN - 1399-3038
pISSN - 0905-6157
DOI - 10.1111/pai.13458
Subject(s) - medicine , eosinophilic esophagitis , food allergy , allergy , desensitization (medicine) , allergen immunotherapy , immunotherapy , asthma , allergen , anaphylaxis , peanut allergy , immunology , discontinuation , dermatology , immune system , disease , receptor
Allergic diseases, such as IgE‐mediated food allergy, asthma, and allergic rhinitis, are relevant health problems worldwide and show an increasing prevalence. Therapies for food allergies are food avoidance and the prompt administration of intramuscular epinephrine in anaphylaxis occurring after accidental exposure. However, allergen immunotherapy (AIT) is being investigated as a new potential tool for treating severe food allergies. Effective oral immunotherapy (OIT) and epicutaneous immunotherapy (EPIT) induce desensitization and restore immune tolerance to the causal allergen. While immediate side effects are well known, the long‐term effects of food AIT are still underestimated. In this regard, eosinophilic gastrointestinal disorders (EGIDs), mainly eosinophilic esophagitis, have been reported as putative complications of OIT for food allergy and sublingual immunotherapy (SLIT) for allergic asthma and rhinitis. Fortunately, these complications are usually reversible and the patient recovers after AIT discontinuation. This review summarizes current knowledge on the possible causative link between eosinophilic gastrointestinal disorders and AIT, highlighting recent evidence and controversies.