[Gastrointestinal allergy].

Abstract

One of the more frequent problems in medicine is the question of a possible association between ingestion of a particular food or drug, and symptoms experienced by a patient. Food allergens are mainly cow's milk, egg, fish, nuts and fruits. Ingested antigen/allergen may induce antibody production and thus sensitization. But the presence of specific antibodies or a positive skin test are not synonymous with allergic symptoms. The convincing diagnostic procedure in adverse reactions to foods or drugs is a controlled exposition. The thrombocytopenia test is a useful addition. Intestinal biopsy is helpful in excluding celiac disease. Younger children are more likely to lose food sensitivity than older ones. At present, the optimal therapy of food sensitivity is to avoid the offending food or drug.