Table 1 Characteristics of the 15 food hypersensitive children as reported by their caregivers
Variable | Total (%) N = 15 |
|---|---|
Gender | |
Male | 8 (53.3) |
Female | 7 (46.7) |
Age group (years) | |
< 8 | 4 (26.7) |
8–12 | 3 (20.0) |
13–17 | 8 (53.3) |
Diagnosis | |
Clinical diagnosis (by GP; Dietician or Allergy specialist at hospital) | 12 (80.0) |
Self-diagnosis (by caregiver) | 3 (20.0) |
Time since diagnosis (years) | |
1–5 | 10 (66.7) |
> 5 | 5 (33.3) |
Self-reported timing of reactions | |
Reaction starts immediately or within the hour | 10 (66.7) |
Reaction starts 1–24 h later | 5 (33.3) |
Nature of worst self-reported reactions | |
Generally associated with IgE-mediated reactions (Includes at least one of the following symptoms: ‘Stinging nettle’ rash, urticaria, hives, itching or swelling of the lips, tongue or mouth, asthma, wheezing, facial swelling, breathing difficulties, anaphylaxis, collapse. May additionally include symptoms associated with non-IgE-mediated reactions) | 9 (60.0) |
Generally associated with non-IgE-mediated reactions (Includes at least one of the following symptoms: vomiting, diarrhoea, sneezing, catarrh, hyperactivity, tiredness, stomach cramps, other digestive problems (e.g. bloating, constipation), eczema flare, migraines/headaches, aching joints/muscles, behavioural/mood changes; but does not include symptoms associated with IgE-mediated reactions) | 6 (40.0) |
Allergens | |
Peanut | 6 (40.0) |
Tree nut | 5 (33.3) |
Sesame | 1 (6.7) |
Cereals containing gluten | 2 (13.3) |
Milk | 9 (60.0) |
Crustaceans | 1 (6.7) |
Eggs | 1 (6.7) |
Soya | 1 (6.7) |
Multiple allergens (≥2) | 7 (46.7) |
Treatment | |
Allergen avoidance | 15 (100.0) |
Antihistamines | 10 (66.7) |
Injectable adrenaline | 3 (20.0) |
Inhaler | 2 (13.3) |
Special diet (in addition to allergen avoidance) | 5 (33.3) |
Multiple treatments (≥2) | 4 (26.7) |