Pediatric food allergies in primary care: the GPs perspective

Abstract

Results 66% of GPs report that they always or almost always take a focussed FA history for patients presenting with urticaria. Significantly more histories were taken for urticaria than for feeding problems (p=0.007), eczema (p=0.025) or asthma (p<0.001). Self-reported confidence in diagnosing FA correlated directly and significantly with confidence in interpreting specific IgE results (p<0.001). Perception of confidence in diagnosis and management of FA was significantly greater in those who have had training in allergy management in the last 5 years (p<0.001) and those who are aware of local guidelines (p=0.004). GPs with higher confidence scores in interpreting specific IgE testing results had a better understanding of who to contact for specialist advice (p=0.009) and more often sought advice (p=0.036). 99% of GPs surveyed expressed interest in learning more about paediatric FA. Conclusions This study demonstrated variability in the confidence of GPs to deal with paediatric food allergies. It also revealed an appetite for further training and suggests targeted education is effective in increasing confidence amongst GPs in diagnosing and managing FA.