We’ve heard this before but now more evidence is available.
Children tested by skin prick tests for food allergies at age one often test negative by the time they are six years old according to a study of over 5,000 children. (Article in Pediatric News April 2019) Peanut allergy had a lower resolution rate of 31% compared to the 91% of kids that improved from their egg allergy. Factors that increased the risk of persistent peanut allergy were: early onset eczema, tree nut allergy (nuts like cashews, walnuts, almonds)and greater than 4mm reaction to the skin prick test.
By the way….A skin prick test is when an allergist puts a small drop of a liquid solution containing the food in question on the skin of a patient. A plastic probe is used to scratch, or prick, the skin to allow the solution to penetrate below the surface. The reaction is monitored to confirm a food allergy.
Susan Badaracco, MD
