Pearls and pitfalls in food protein-induced enterocolitis syndrome (
FPIES).
Allergy Asthma Proc 2023;
44:368-373. [PMID:
37641223 PMCID:
PMC10629436 DOI:
10.2500/aap.2023.44.230047]
[Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/31/2023]
Abstract
Background: Food protein-induced enterocolitis syndrome (FPIES) is a rare, non-immunoglobulin E (IgE) mediated gastrointestinal food hypersensitivity. It is a clinical diagnosis commonly characterized by profuse vomiting 1 to 4 hours after ingestion of the triggering food(s). Objective: The objective was to increase awareness of FPIES and review the epidemiology, clinical presentation, pathogenesis, diagnosis, and management of FPIES. The lack of availability of a definite biomarker or diagnostic tool often leads to a delay in diagnosis. Methods: A literature search of salient articles that described case reports and case series of FPIES and their management were analyzed. Results: A case of FPIES with a literature review is presented with emphasis on clinical pearls and pitfalls. FPIES is a diagnosis of exclusion and the mainstay of treatment is avoidance of the trigger food(s) for at least 12-18 months from the last exposure. Conclusion: As FPIES is a non-IgE-mediated reaction, allergy testing via skin-prick test or blood tests to measure food IgE antibodies is not routinely recommended. Many children outgrow FPIES by 3-4 years of age. Supervised oral food challenge is recommended to assess acquisition of tolerance.
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