Food Anaphylaxis: Reported Cases in Russian Federation Children

Abstract

Background: Anaphylaxis is a potentially fatal allergic reaction. Food allergy is one of the main causes of anaphylaxis in children. Anaphylaxis research in different populations across Europe is one of the unmet needs. The aim of this study is to evaluate typical clinical features, causes of food anaphylaxis and sensitization to food allergens in Russian Federation children admitted to the allergy department. Materials and methods: Allergy history of 80 children with food anaphylaxis was investigated and specific IgE concentration in serum was tested. Results: Total number of anaphylaxis episodes in 80 children was 158. Family allergy history was positive in 42 children. Food anaphylaxis episodes were associated more often with cow milk, fish or/and seafood, tree nuts. Cow milk was reliably more valid in children under 2 years of age than in older children, where tree nut and fruit anaphylaxis was more frequent. Specific IgE levels ≥ 0,35 кUA/l to food associated with anaphylaxis episodes were revealed in all children and varied largely. Specific IgE levels did not correlate with severity of anaphylaxis episodes.Clinical manifestations with skin/mucosa and respiratory system involvement were the most frequent (97,5% and 92% respectively). Cardiovascular and gastrointestinal systems were involved in 33,5% of cases each. Conclusion: Cow milk, fish and/or seafood, tree nuts are the most often food associated with food anaphylaxis cases in Russian Federation children. Food triggers of anaphylaxis vary with age of children. Skin/mucosa and respiratory tract are often involved in food anaphylaxis episodes. Cardiovascular involvement increases with children’s age.