Food-dependent exercise-induced anaphylaxis in childhood

Pediatr Allergy Immunol. 2007 Aug;18(5):455-63. doi: 10.1111/j.1399-3038.2007.00599.x.

Abstract

The clinical syndrome of food-dependent exercise-induced anaphylaxis (FDEIA) is typified by the onset of anaphylaxis during (or soon after) exercise which was preceded by the ingestion of the causal food allergen/s. In FDEIA, both the food allergen/s and exercise are independently tolerated. FDEIA is an uncommon allergic condition in childhood, but nonetheless is an important differential diagnosis to be considered when faced by a child who has experienced exercise-associated anaphylaxis. The diagnosis of FDEIA is heavily dependent on the clinical history. Allergy tests may need to be performed to a broad panel of food and food additives. Modified exercise challenges (performed with and without prior ingestion of food) are frequently required as allergy test results frequently return low-positive results. A diagnosis of FDEIA facilitates the safe independent return to exercise and reintroduction of foods for patients who otherwise may unnecessarily avoid exercise and/or restrict their diet. The natural history of FDEIA is unknown; however, a safe return is usually achieved when the ingestion of the causal food allergen/s and exercise are separated.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Anaphylaxis / diagnosis*
  • Anaphylaxis / immunology
  • Child
  • Exercise*
  • Female
  • Food Hypersensitivity / diagnosis*
  • Food Hypersensitivity / immunology
  • Humans
  • Male