Acidosis metabólica neonatal por síndrome de enterocolitis inducido por proteína de alimentos: reporte de caso / Neonatal metabolic acidosis caused by food proteininduced enterocolitis syndrome: a case report

El síndrome de enterocolitis inducido por proteínas de los alimentos (FPIES, por su sigla en inglés) es una reacción alérgica no mediada por inmunoglobulina E (IgE) con síntomas gastrointestinales, como vómitos y diarrea. El diagnóstico se basa en criterios clínicos y en una prueba de provocación para confirmarlo. Es una enfermedad desconocida en las unidades neonatales, debido a la inespecificidad de los síntomas en los recién nacidos. La cifra de metahemoglobina elevada es una opción sencilla de aproximación diagnóstica. Se describe el caso clínico de un recién nacido que ingresa al servicio de urgencias por deshidratación, letargia, vómitos, diarrea y acidosis metabólica grave con elevación de metahemoglobina, con mejora clínica y recuperación total tras el inicio del aporte de fórmula elemental. La sospecha diagnóstica se confirmó tras la prueba de provocación positiva.

Food protein-induced enterocolitis syndrome (FPIES) is a non-IgE mediated allergic reaction with gastrointestinal symptoms, such as vomiting and diarrhea. FPIES diagnosis is based on clinical criteria and on a food challenge test. It is an unknown disease in neonatal units due to its nonspecific symptoms in newborn infants. An elevated methemoglobin level is a simple way to approach diagnosis. Here we describe a clinical case of a newborn admitted to the emergency department because of dehydration, lethargy, vomiting, diarrhea, severe metabolic acidosis, and a high methemoglobin level. Clinical improvement and complete recovery was achieved after initiation of elemental formula. The diagnostic suspicion was confirmed after a positive challenge test.

Intake of allergenic foods at 1.5 years and 3 years of age in a general child population in Japan: a cross-sectional study

BACKGROUND@#Recent studies indicate that the timing of introduction of potentially allergenic food is crucial for the development of food allergy in children. This cross-sectional study aimed to clarify the reality of allergen food intake in a general population of young children in Japan.@*METHODS@#A questionnaire survey of caregivers was conducted at health checkups for 1.5-year (18-month)-old and 3-year-old children in the fall of 2020. The caregivers were asked about (1) the presence/absence of allergic disease symptoms based on the ISAAC questionnaire, and (2) foods that caregivers avoided giving their children. Ordinal logistic regression analyses were periformed to determine factors associated with food avoidance.@*RESULTS@#Questionnaires were distributed to 1720 caregivers, and 1603 (93%) responded. The responders consisted of 771 and 832 caregivers who participated in 1.5-year-old and 3-year-old checkups, respectively. The prevalence of allergic diseases was comparable to recent epidemiological studies in Japan, indicating that the population may be representative. At 1.5 years old, more than 50% of the children were not exposed to peanuts, tree nuts, fish eggs, shellfish, and buckwheat. At 3 years old, the avoidance rates of the foods had decreased but were still between 18.8% and 32.0%. On the other hand, the avoidance rates of chicken egg and cow's milk, the top 2 common allergenic foods in Japan, were much lower at 2.8% and 1.5% at 1.5 years, and they decreased to 1.4% and 0.7% at 3 years old, respectively. Ordinal logistic analysis showed that avoidance of chicken egg, cow's milk, and wheat was associated with food allergy diagnosis and chicken egg avoidance with eczema, but avoidance of other foods showed no associations with any risk factors for food allergy.@*CONCLUSION@#Caregivers avoided giving various foods, independent of allergy risk factors, to their young children. Since delayed introduction of an allergenic food has been reported to increase the risk of developing an allergy to the food, the results warrant future investigation of the development of food allergies in relation to current eating habits and recommendations.

Juvenile "idiopathic" arthritis (JIA) as a manifestation of food allergy. Case Study / Alergia alimentaria artritis reumatoidea juvenil. Reporte de un caso

ABSTRACT Studies linking type of diet and juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) have variable results and are inconsistent. This case shows an evolution which fulfilled the criteria of JIA, but was diagnosed as food allergy. Case: A seven-year old boy had fever, arthralgia, general malaise, headaches, abdominal pain and rashes. These symptoms were diagnosed as fever of unknown origin (FUO) and probable JIA. There was a stabbing pain in the right iliac fossa. An upper and lower endoscopy were performed and nodular ileocolitis was detected. A hypoallergenic diet was prescribed, in addition to mesalazine and oral corticosteroids. The patient was asymptomatic for 2.5 months and then relapsed with all symptoms after consuming dairy. This JIA case shows the diagnostic phases of food allergy: improvement and recurrence of symptoms with the reintroduction of the allergen (oral challenge=gold standard of food allergy). There is evidence that supports the existence of a gut-joint axis, where the luminal content triggers a series of immunologically mediated reactions that can cause systemic diseases such as JIA and other connective tissue diseases. This case report adds reasonable evidence in support of food allergy as a cause of JIA.

RESUMEN Los estudios que relacionan el tipo de dieta y la artritis idiopática juvenil (AIJ) tienen resultados variables y son inconsistentes. Este caso muestra una evolución que cumplió con los criterios de AIJ, pero fue diagnosticada como alergia alimentaria. Caso: Un niño de siete años tenía fiebre, artralgia, malestar general, dolores de cabeza, dolor abdominal y erupciones cutáneas. Estos síntomas fueron diagnosticados como fiebre de origen desconocido (FUO) y probable AIJ. Hubo un dolor punzante en la fosa ilíaca derecha. Se realizó una endoscopia superior e inferior y se detectó ileocolitis nodular. Se prescribió una dieta hipoalergénica, además de mesalazina y corticosteroides orales. El paciente estuvo asintomático durante 2,5 meses y luego recayó con todos los síntomas después de consumir lácteos. Este caso de AIJ muestra las fases diagnósticas de la alergia alimentaria: mejora y recurrencia de los síntomas con la reintroducción del alergeno (desafío oral = estándar de oro de alergia alimentaria). Existe evidencia que respalda la existencia de un eje de la articulación intestinal, donde el contenido luminal desencadena una serie de reacciones inmunológicamente mediadas que pueden causar enfermedades sistémicas como la AIJ y otras enfermedades del tejido conectivo. Este informe del caso agrega evidencia razonable en apoyo de la alergia a los alimentos como causa de AIJ.

Alergias alimentarias, estado nutricional y salud intestinal, la experiencia en un niño preescolar / Food allergies, nutritional status and intestinal health, the experience in a preschool child

La salud intestinal se ha convertido en un factor importante en el estado de salud de un individuo. El factor alérgico juega un papel fundamental en el crecimiento, desarrollo y ganancia de peso en las primeras etapas de la vida. La prevalencia de alergias alimentarias en niños es del 4 % al 6 %. La malnutrición es la principal causa de enfermedad a nivel mundial. Los niños menores de 5 años son más vulnerables, 150,8 millones de niños sufren retraso del crecimiento y 50,5 millones padecen emaciación. Se presenta el caso clínico: Niño preescolar masculino de 5 años con 2 meses de edad, diagnosticado con: Hipercalciuria, Desnutrición actual con talla baja según combinación de indicadores, Sensibilidad al gluten no celiaca, Síndrome de Intestino hiperpermeable, síndrome de sobrecrecimiento fúngico (SIFO), intolerancia a azúcares, disbiosis grado IV, anemia ferropénica, enteropatías alimentarias por gluten, cítricos, maní, caseína, huevo y soya, y rinitis alérgica moderada persistente contra ácaros y hongos, cursando con sintomatología amplia y variada. Recibió tratamiento con una alimentación centrada en aporte calórico y de nutrientes acorde a mejorar el estado nutricional, la exclusión de alérgenos alimentarios y de azúcares, tratamiento con antibiótico de amplio espectro, ketoconazol 3 ciclos, inmunoglobulina humanizada y probióticos (Lactobacillus acidophillus). Mostró mejoría del estado nutricional, la salud intestinal y la actividad inmunológica, acompañada de mejoría en la sintomatológica asociada(AU)

Malnutrition is the leading cause of poor health worldwide. Children under the age of 5 are most vulnerable. 150.8 million infants are stunted and 50.5 million are wasted (1). On the other hand, the estimated prevalence of food allergies in children is 4 % to 6 %. However, studies reveal that the allergic factor plays a fundamental role in growth, development and weight gain in the early stages of life. Similarly, in the last decade, intestinal health has become an important factor in the health of an individual, especially at a critical stage of growth and development. Clinical case: 5-year-old male preschool boy with 2 months of age, diagnosed with: hypercalciuria, current malnutrition with short stature combination of indicators (2), Leaky Gut Syndrome, Fungal Overgrowth Syndrome (SIFO), Sugar Intolerance, Grade IV Dysbiosis, Iron Deficiency Anemia, Alimentary Enteropathies due to gluten, citrus, peanuts, casein, egg and soy, and moderate persistent allergic rhinitis against mites and fungi, with wide and varied symptomatology. The treatment is supplemented with a diet focused on a caloric and nutrient intake in accordance with improving the nutritional status, the exclusion of food allergens and sugars. Treatment with a broad-spectrum antibiotic, 3-cycle ketoconazole, humanized immunoglobulin, and probiotics (Lactobacillus acidophillus) was indicated. Conclusions: An improvement was shown in the nutritional status, intestinal health, and immunological activity, accompanied by the improvement of the associated symptoms(AU)

Estudio de validez diagnóstica de la prueba de hemorragia oculta fecal en lactantes con proctocolitis alérgica inducida por proteína alimentaria / Diagnostic validity of fecal occult blood test in infants with food protein-induced allergic proctocolitis

Resumen: Introducción: La proctocolitis alérgica inducida por proteína alimentaria (PCA) es la forma más fre cuente de alergia alimentaria no mediada por IgE. El diagnóstico se realiza por prueba de provocación oral, sin embargo, no existe una prueba diagnóstica no invasiva para su diagnóstico. Frecuentemente en Chile se utiliza la prueba de hemorragia oculta fecal (PHOF) para confirmar PCA, pero no hay estudios que respalden su indicación. Objetivo: Determinar la validez diagnóstica de la PHOF en la evaluación de lactantes con PCA. Pacientes y Método: Estudio de casos y controles con recluta miento prospectivo de lactantes con rectorragia y sospecha de PCA y lactantes sanos, en quienes se realizó una PHOF. Se indicó dieta de exclusión a los casos y luego se confirmó diagnóstico de PCA mediante contraprueba. Resultados: Se incluyó a 25 casos y 29 controles sin diferencias signi ficativas en edad, sexo, tipo de parto, alimentación o edad materna. Los casos presentaron con mayor frecuencia comorbilidades alérgicas, uso de medicamentos y antecedentes familiares de alergia. La PHOF fue positiva en 84% de casos y en 34% de controles (p<0,001). La sensibilidad de la PHOF para diagnosticar PCA fue 84%, especificidad 66%, valor predictivo positivo 68% y valor predictivo nega tivo 83%. El área bajo la curva ROC fue de 0,75 (IC 95% 0,61-0,88). Conclusiones: Si bien la PHOF tiene sensibilidad adecuada para detectar PCA en lactantes con rectorragia, resulta alterada en más de un tercio de lactantes sanos por lo que no se recomienda su uso habitual para el diagnóstico de PCA.

Abstract: Introduction: Food protein-induced allergic proctocolitis (FPIAP) is the most frequent presenta tion of non-IgE mediated food allergy (FA). The diagnosis is made by oral food challenge, however, non-invasive diagnostic tests are not available. In Chile, the fecal occult blood test (FOBT) is fre quently used to confirm FPIAP, however, there are no studies that support this practice. Objective: To establish the diagnostic validity of FOBT in the evaluation of infants with FPIAP. Patients and Method: Case-control study with prospective recruitment of infants with rectal bleeding and suspicion of FPIAP, and controls were healthy infants, in whom the FOBT was conducted. All cases underwent an elimination diet, after which the diagnosis of FPIAP was confirmed by oral food cha llenge. Results: 25 cases and 29 controls were included without significant differences in age, gen der, type of delivery, feeding, and maternal age. The cases had higher rates of allergic comorbidities, medication use, and family history of allergy. The FOBT was positive in 84% of cases and in 34% of controls (p < 0.001). The sensitivity of the FOBT for the diagnosis of FPIAP was 84%, specificity was 66%, positive predictive value 68%, and the negative predictive value 83%. The area under the ROC curve was 0.75 (CI 95% 0.61-0.88). Conclusions: Although the FOBT has an adequate sensitivity to diagnose FPIAP in infants with rectal bleeding, this test had abnormal results in more than a third of healthy infants. Therefore, the routine use of FOBT is not recommended for the diagnosis of FPIAP.

Presencia de alergias en menores por consumo temprano de alimentos en Barranquilla, Colombia / Allergies in children due to early food consumption in Barranquilla, Colombia

RESUMEN Objetivo Determinar la prevalencia de síntomas asociados a asma, rinitis y eccema relacionada con la ingesta de alimentos en menores de seis a siete años. Metodología Estudio descriptivo de prevalencia de asma, rinitis y eccema y la relación con el consumo de alimentos. Información obtenida en 1 520 escolares del Distrito de Barraquilla y su área metropolitana. Se empleó metodología ISSAC procesándose la información mediante el software SPSS versión 24 El cuestionario fue contestado por el acudiente del menor y solo se tuvieron en cuenta los que tenían debidamente diligenciado los consentimientos informados Se hizo análisis empleando Chi-cuadrado, y el valor P de significancia con un 95% de confianza. Resultados Para los 1 520 menores encuestados el alimento que presentó relación con alergias fue el pescado asociándolo con el asma, evidenciando que en la población puede ser factor protector para la aparición de eccema mostrando estadísticamente una P<0,05, un Chi-cuadrado: 4,566, IC 95% [0,3;0,8]. Conclusiones De los alimentos analizados el pescado es uno que presentó relación y se asoció como factor protector para el eccema, el consumo de la leche de vaca se relacionó como factor protector para rinitis; en lo referente a los demás alimentos y las alergias el estudio no es conclusivo en cuanto a si la ingesta temprana es un factor predisponente o desencadenante de ellas en los menores, o no lo son.(AU)

ABSTRACT Objective To determine the prevalence of symptoms associated with asthma, rhinitis and eczema with food intake in children under six years of age. Materials and Methods Descriptive study on the prevalence of asthma, rhinitis and eczema and their correlation with food consumption. Information was obtained from 1 520 schoolchildren of the District of Barranquilla and its metropolitan area. The ISSAC method was used to process the information, which was provided by the child's guardian, using the software SPSS version 24. Only duly completed questionnaires with informed consents were considered. Analysis was made using a chi-squared test, with a significant P value and 95% confidence. Results In the 1 520 children surveyed, the type of food related to allergies was fish, associated with asthma, showing that this may be a protective factor for the population regarding the onset of eczema, with a statistically a P value of <0.05, chi-square of 4.566, and CI of 95% [0.3;0.8]. Conclusions The analyzed foods showed that fish is related and associated as a protective factor for eczema, while the consumption of cow's milk was related as a protective factor for rhinitis. Regarding other foods and allergies, the study is not conclusive as to whether their early intake is a predisposing factor or trigger in children.(AU)

Gluten and Neuroimmunology. Rare association with Myasthenia Gravis and Literature Review

SUMMARY As the celiac disease (CD), the non-celiac gluten sensitivity (NCGS) has also been associated with several autoimmune manifestations. It is rarely associated with myasthenia gravis (MG). This paper shall introduce the case of a young female patient, initially presenting a peripheral neuropathy framework. During clinical and neurological follow-up, she began to present symptoms of various immune-mediated morbidities. Diseases related to gluten represent a clinical spectrum of manifestations with a trigger in common, the ingestion of gluten. CD is the most well-known and serious disease of the spectrum, also called gluten-sensitive enteropathy. The NCGS is diagnosed from clinical evidence of improvement in symptoms followed by a Gluten Free Diet (GFD) in patients without signs of enteropathy in duodenal biopsy. There are indications that, although rare, with a prevalence of 1 in 5000, myasthenia gravis (MG) may occur more often when CD is also present. Between 13 to 22% of the patients with MG have a second autoimmune disorder. However, it is often associated with dermatomyositis or polymyositis, lupus erythematosussystemic lupus erythematosus, Addison's disease, Guillain-Barré syndrome and juvenile rheumatoid arthritis. Thus, the symptoms of neuromuscular junction involvement may give a diagnostic evidence of this rare association.

Síntomas respiratorios asociados a alergia alimentaria / Respiratory symptoms associated with food allergy

In the last years the frequency of allergic diseases has risen in the world; however, their actual prevalence is unknown. In this context, current estimates of clinically relevant food allergy range from 1-3 % in children and adults in the general population. Respiratory symptoms associated with food allergy are described, but they are poorly evaluated by doctors probably because they are little known. This article is a review of the latest information described in the literature regarding this relationship.

La frecuencia de enfermedades alérgicas en el mundo ha aumentado en los últimos años, sin embargo, la prevalencia real de ellas no es conocida, dentro de este contexto la alergia alimentaria con manifestación clínica significativa se estima entre 1-3% en niños y adultos en la población general. Los síntomas respiratorios asociados a esta patología están descritos, pero son poco evaluados por los médicos probablemente debido a que son poco conocidos. Este artículo es una actualización de lo descrito en la literatura en relación a esta asociación.

Marcadores de inflamación y desarrollo de tolerancia en la proctocolitis alérgica / Markers of inflammation and tolerance development in allergic proctocolitis

Antecedentes: Con el incremento de la proctocolitis alérgica inducida por proteínas de la dieta (PAIPD), son necesarios estudios que aclaren su fisiopatología y determinar marcadores no invasivos y sencillos para el diagnóstico y la evaluación del desarrollo de tolerancia. No hallamos estudios publicados sobre la función del índice de neutrófilos/linfocitos (INL) y el volumen plaquetario medio (VPM), que son marcadores no invasivos fácilmente medibles, en pacientes con PAIPD. Objetivos: Determinar la relación entre el INL y el VPM con el diagnóstico y desarrollo de tolerancia en niños con PAIPD. Métodos: Estudio transversal retrospectivo, los datos se obtuvieron del sistema de registros médicos, los síntomas y los resultados de laboratorio de los pacientes con diagnóstico de PAIPD fueron controlados en los consultorios de alergia y gastroenterología. Se compararon valores del hemograma al momento del diagnóstico con el grupo de niños sanos de edad y sexo similares. Resultados: Entre los 59 pacientes con diagnóstico de PAIPD, los varones representaron el 47,4% y las niñas, el 52,6%. El VPM y el volumen plaquetario relativo (VPR) eran significativamente más altos entre los pacientes con PAIPD en comparación con el grupo de referencia (n: 67) (p < 0,001). Asimismo, VPM y el VPR fueron significativamente elevados en pacientes que no desarrollaron tolerancia comparados con los que la desarrollaron (p= 0,01). Con el INL no hubo diferencias entre los grupos. Conclusiones: El VPM y el VPR se consideraron marcadores adecuados para predecir el pronóstico de los pacientes con PAIPD dado que son rápidos, costo-efectivos y fáciles de medir.

Background. Today, as a result of an increase in the frequency of food protein-induced allergic proctocolitis (FPIAP), there is a need for studies not only to enlighten the pathophysiology of the disease but also to determine simple, non-invasive markers in both diagnosis, and evaluation of the development of tolerance. No study has been found in the literature about the place of neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio (NLR) and mean platelet volume (MPV), which are easy to calculate and non-invasive markers. Objectives. The purpose is to determine the relation between NLR and MPV with the diagnosis and development of tolerance in children with FPIAP. Methods. In this retrospective cross-sectional study, clinical, demographic symptoms and laboratory findings of patients, monitored with FPIAP diagnosis in allergy and gastroenterology clinics, were acquired from the patient record system. Hemogram values at the time of diagnosis were compared with the values of healthy children of the same age and gender. Results. Among 59 patients diagnosed with FPIAP, males constitute 47.4% and females constitute 52.6%. MPV and platelet crit (PCT) values were significantly high when compared to the control group (n: 67) in FPIAP cases (p <0.001). Also, MPV and PCT values were significantly high in non-tolerance developing cases when compared to developing ones (p= 0.01). Conclusions. Contrary to NLR, MPV and PCT values have been considered to be good markers in predicting prognosis in cases with FPIAP since they are quick, cost effective and easy to calculate.

Un caso inusual de síndrome de enterocolitis inducida por proteínas alimentarias / Unusual case of food protein-induced enterocolitis syndrome

El síndrome de enterocolitis inducido por proteínas alimentarias es un síndrome de hipersensibilidad gastrointestinal a alimentos no mediado por inmunoglobulina E, que, en su forma aguda, se manifiesta con vómitos repetitivos, palidez e hipotonía, que puede acompañarse o no de diarrea y producir un cuadro grave de deshidratación y letargia. Una prueba de provocación oral controlada es, en ocasiones, realizada para confirmar el diagnóstico y el tratamiento consiste en la eliminación del alimento causante. Se presenta el caso de un lactante de 3 meses con varios episodios de síndrome de enterocolitis tras la toma de biberón de leche de fórmula de inicio con tolerancia de otra marca comercial. Se encontraron diferencias en los ingredientes de su composición que podrían ser el origen de la sensibilización.

Food protein-induced enterocolitis syndrome is a nonimmunoglobulin E mediated gastrointestinal food hypersensitivity that manifests as profuse, repetitive vomiting, pallor and hypotonia, often with diarrhea leading to severe dehydration and lethargy (sepsis-like symptoms) in the acute setting. An oral food challenge is sometimes performed to confirm the diagnosis and treatment consists of elimination of the food trigger(s) from the diet. We report a case of a 3-months-old infant with several episodes of food protein-induced enterocolitis syndrome after taking infant formula milk with tolerance of another trademark. Differences in the composition of its ingredients could be the cause of the sensitization.

Dermografismo "mixto o bifásico" / "Mixed or biphasic" Dermographism

El dermografismo, conocido como "escritura sobre la piel", fenómeno que ocurre en forma espontánea o a la provocación física de la misma, es un síntoma, signo o síndrome semiológico, característico de procesos clínicos alérgicos y no alérgicos. Se expresa comúnmente como dermografismo rojo (urticaria dermatográfica, con o sin angioedema acompañante), con eritema y/o roncha muy frecuente en procesos alérgicos, pero también en las urticarias físicas, autoinmunes o tóxicas por aditivos alimentarios, infecciones, medicamentos y otros agentes. El dermografismo blanco, que se evidencia como un área que palidece alrededor de la línea de estimulación física, muy característico de la atopia; y, el que en esta comunicación hemos denominado dermografismo "mixto o bifásico", por su carácter bimodal, en el que se alternan las expresiones de los dermografismos rojo y blanco, en forma casi simultánea o en sucesión de blanco temprano en el primer minuto a rojo tardío a los cinco minutos o más, o al contrario, rojo inmediato y blanco posterior, típico de atopia. El paciente con hiperreactividad atópica en piel es el que exhibe el dermografismo mixto o bifásico, pues muestra el dermografismo blanco como estigma de atopia y el dermografismo rojo de la urticaria sintomática aguda o crónica. Esta última forma de dermografismo no se encuentra en las descripciones clásicas y es el objetivo de esta comunicación, que se acompaña de una amplia discusión sobre la ocurrencia de dermografismo en la práctica clínica. Material y Métodos: Se realizó una extensa revisión bibliográfica, consultando bases de datos como Medline, PubMed, DocChek, Wiley, Amedeo, Cochrane, Scielo, Hinari y Lilacs; se presentan viñetas clínicas de casos de pacientes atópicos. Conclusión: En esta revisión se ha presentado la ocurrencia clínica del dermografismo como un fenómeno frecuente de diferentes orígenes, pero que, muchas veces, es acompañante casi invariable de expresiones atópicas, en donde el dermografismo es un signo de ayuda para la tipificación del paciente alérgico...(AU)

Sensibilidad no celíaca al gluten: Una patología más que responde al gluten / Non-celiac gluten sensitivity: Another condition that responds to gluten

Remission of gastrointestinal and general symptoms after gluten withdrawal has been described in some non-celiac individuals for nearly 30 years. Only recently, efforts have been made to define this entity, now referred to as "non- celiac gluten sensitivity". It includes patients that clinically respond to gluten free diet without exhibiting allergic or autoimmune features to explain such response. Wheat allergy, celiac disease, irritable bowel syndrome and symptoms induced by high FODMAPs (Fermentable, Oligo-, Di-, Mono-saccharides And Polyols) consumption are the main differential diagnoses. The relationship with neuropsychiatric disorders such as schizophrenia and autism has not been demonstrated, but currently it gives ground to great hope in families with affected children. Epidemiology of non-celiac gluten sensitivity is not clear. It is described as more common among women and less common in children. Genetic and immune factors, changes in intestinal microbiota and non-gluten components present in wheat grains are main factors postulated in the pathogenesis of this condition. To date, there are no specific biomarkers for non-celiac gluten sensitivity and diagnosis is reached by excluding other causes of disease. A trial with gluten-free diet and subsequent gluten challenge is the methodology most frequently used to confirm diagnosis.

Relación entre dermatitis atópica y alergia alimentaria / Relationship between atopic dermatitis and food allergy

La denominada "marcha alérgica" se caracteriza por diferentes manifestaciones atópicas relacionadas y sucesivas a lo largo de la vida del individuo. Los niños que presentan alergia alimentaria (AA) tienen mayor predisposición al desarrollo de otras enfermedades alérgicas entre las cuales destacan dermatitis atópica (DA), asma y rinitis alérgica. La DA y AA coexisten en mayor medida en los pacientes que presentan DA de comienzo precoz, agresiva y persistente. Por su parte, la AlA es un factor precipitante de DA en un subgrupo de pacientes especialmente aquellos con AA mediadas por IgE, y también existiría correlación con las manifestaciones de AA de tipo retardadas. La disfunción en la barrera epitelial principalmente atribuida a mutaciones en el gen de la filagrina se ha descrito como posible desencadenante de la sensibilización a alérgenos por aumento de la permeabilidad cutánea. Se describen las características generales de la DA y evidencias de investigaciones actuales con respecto al rol de la AA sobre el desarrollo de la DA, su manejo y estrategias de prevención. Se discute la utilidad de los exámenes para el diagnóstico y las indicaciones de tratamiento y prevención en el manejo de niños con DA y AA. La restauración de las alteraciones de la barrera cutánea para prevenir la sensibilización antigénica tendría un rol importante para evitar el desarrollo de enfermedades alérgicas especialmente respiratorias.

The term "allergic march" refers to the history of different atopic manifestations throughout the patient's life. Children with food allergy (FA) are more predisposed to the development of other allergic diseases such as atopic dermatitis (AD), asthma and allergic rhinitis. AlD and FA coexist to a greater extent in patients with early signs of AD, aggressive and persistent symptoms. Meanwhile, FA is a precipitating factor to AlD especially in patients with IgE-mediated FA. Correlation to delayed manifestations of FA may also be found. Epithelial barrier dysfunction, mainly attributed to mutations in the filaggrin gene, has been described as a possible trigger for allergen sensitization by increasing skin permeability. This study describes general characteristics of DA and current research evidence regarding the role of FA in the DA development, management and prevention strategies. Also, the utility of diagnostic tests, treatment and prevention in children with DA and FA are discussed. The restoration of impaired skin barrier to prevent sensitization to antigens may have an important role to prevent the development of allergic diseases, especially respiratory diseases.

Atopy patch test (APT) in the diagnosis of food allergy in children with atopic dermatitis / Teste de contato atópico (TCA) no diagnóstico de alergia alimentar em crianças com dermatite atópica

BACKGROUND: Atopic Dermatitis is a chronic inflammatory skin disease. Food allergens are important in the pathogenesis in 1/3 of the cases. Several mechanisms are involved in the pathogenesis of Atopic Dermatitis. Immediate reactions are identified by both measurement of specific IgE and skin prick test. Atopy Patch Test seems to be relevant in the investigation of patients with suspected delayed-type reactions. OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the standardization of this method concerning allergen concentration, occlusion time and interpretation, and determine the specificity and sensitivity of the Atopy Patch Test according to the skin prick test and specific IgE levels in food allergy diagnosis in children with Atopic Dermatitis. METHODS: Seventy-two children, aged 2-12 years were selected and followed at the allergy clinic of the Hospital São Zacharias. Skin prick test, specific IgE and food Atopy Patch Test (cow's milk, egg, soy and wheat) were carried out. Three groups were submitted to the Atopy Patch Test: (1) Atopic Dermatitis with or without Rhinitis and Asthma; (2) Rhinitis and or Asthma without AD; (3) Healthy individuals. RESULTS: In group 1, 40% of the patients presented positive reactions. The longer the exposure time (48h and 72h), the higher the sensitivity. In group 2, the test was more specific than sensitive for all the extracts, with increased sensitivity the longer the time of exposure (72h). In group 3, 8.3% presented positive tests. CONCLUSION: APT evidenced a great diagnostic value in late-phase reactions to food, with high specificity. It showed to be a specific and reliable tool in comparison with the healthy group's results.

FUNDAMENTOS: A Dermatite Atópica é uma doença inflamatória crônica da pele. Os alimentos são importantes na patogênese da doença em 1/3 dos casos. Diversos mecanismos estão envolvidos na fisiopatogenia da dermatite Atópica. As reações imediatas são identificadas pela dosagem de IgE específica e teste de puntura. O teste de contato atópico parece ter relevância na investigação de pacientes com suspeita de reação tardia. OBJETIVOS: Avaliar a padronização do método com relação à concentração do alérgeno, tempo de oclusão e de interpretação; e determinar a especificidade e a sensibilidade do teste de contato atópico em relação ao teste de puntura e a dosagem de IgE específica, no diagnóstico de alergia alimentar em crianças com dermatite Atópica. MÉTODOS: Setenta e duas crianças com 2 a 12 anos foram submetidas a teste de puntura e dosagem de IgE específicas para alimentos (leite de vaca, ovo, soja, trigo). O teste de contato atópico foi aplicado em 3 grupos: (1) Dermatite Atópica com ou sem Rinite e Asma; (2) Rinite e ou Asma sem Dermatite Atópica; (3) Saudáveis. RESULTADOS: No grupo 1, 40% dos pacientes apresentaram reação positiva. Quanto maior o tempo de exposição, maior foi a sensibilidade. No grupo 2, o teste foi mais específico que sensível para todos os extratos; com aumento da sensibilidade com maior tempo de exposição (72h). No grupo 3, 8.3% apresentaram testes positivos. CONCLUSÃO: O teste de contato atópico mostrou ter valor diagnóstico em relação às reações de fase tardia a alimentos, com elevada especificidade. Mostrou-se um teste específico e confiável ao comparar com os resultados do grupo controle.

Epidemiología de la alergia alimentaria en la edad pediátria / Epidemiology of food allergy in children

La incidencia de alergia alimentaria (AA) en niños es del 2-8%. Más del 90% de las AA en los lactantes son causados por leche de vaca (LV), huevo de gallina, soya, maní, nueces, trigo, pescado y mariscos. Existen algunos factores de riesgo para el desarrollo de AA. El impacto de la LM sobre el desarrollo de las alergias es controversial. Hay un 0.21% de APLV neonatal. La introducción antes del 4 mes de vida de más de 4 alimentos está asociada con un mayor riesgo de dermatitis atópica. La prueba de provocación oral a los alimentos es una herramienta valiosa en el diagnóstico inicial y el manejo de las reacciones adversas a los alimentos. Los síntomas sugestivos de APLV pueden ser encontrados en cerca del 5-15% de los niños. La hipersensibilidad mediada por IgE a la proteína de la LV, es predominantemente una enfermedad del período del lactante.

The incidence of food allergy (FA) in children of 2-8%. Over 90% of FA in infants are caused by cow's milk (CM), chicken egg, soy, peanuts, tree nuts, wheat, fish and seafood. There are some risk factors for the development of FA. The impact of breastfeeding on the development of allergies is controversial. There is a 0.21% of neonatal CMPA. The introduction before 4 months of life of more than 4 foods is associated with an increased risk of atopic dermatitis. The oral challenge test to food is a valuable tool in the initial diagnosis and management of adverse reactions to food. Symptoms suggestive of CMPA can be found in about 5-15% of children. The IgE-mediated hypersensitivity to the protein in the CM, is predominantly a disease of the infant period.

Retrospective Analysis of the Natural History of Atopic Dermatitis Occurring in the First Year of Life in Korean Children

The aim of this study was to analyze the natural history of atopic dermatitis (AD) and the risk factors associated with the remission of AD in Korean children. We enrolled 597 children with AD that occurred in the first year of life. A variety of factors influencing the prognosis were assessed by medical records and telephone interviews. Their outcome was classified into complete remission, intermittent, and persistent AD. AD had completely disappeared in 422 cases (70.6%), while 149 (25%) and 26 cases (4.4%) showed intermittent and persistent skin symptoms, respectively. The average healing time was 29.6 months in complete remission group and expected healing time of the AD was 60 months. None of risk factors were significant by multivariate analysis. But, in moderate-to-severe AD group, maternal diet restriction during lactation (P = 0.046) and no sensitization to cow's milk (P = 0.017) were significantly associated with remission of AD in the multivariate analysis. In conclusion, AD occurring in the first year of life disappears in a significant proportion of patients. In addition, in Korean children with moderate-to-severe AD, maternal diet restriction of allergenic food during lactation and sensitization to cow's milk seem to predict the prognosis of AD.

Identification of IgE-mediated food allergy and allergens in older children and adults with asthma and allergic rhinitis.

Background and objective. Prevalence of immunoglobulin (Ig) E-mediated food allergy is primarily reported for certain pediatric populations and adults. The present study was aimed to investigate the relative prevalence of food allergy and allergens in older children and adults with asthma and allergic rhinitis. Methods. Patients (12-62 years) were screened using standard questionnaire and skin prick-test (SPT) with common foods and aeroallergens. Specific IgE level was determined by enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and allergy was established by blinded food challenges. Results. Of 1860 patients screened, 1097 (58.9%) gave history of food allergy. Of the history positive patients skin tested (n=470), 138 (29.3%) showed a marked positive reaction to food extracts. Rice elicited positive SPT reaction in maximum number of cases 29 (6.2%) followed by blackgram 28 (5.9%), lentil 26 (5.5%), citrus fruits 25 (5.3%), pea 18 (3.8%), maize 18 (3.8%) and banana 17 (3.6%). The SPT positive patients showed elevated specific IgE levels (range: 0.8-79 IU/mL) against respective food allergens than normal controls (0.73 IU/mL, mean±2SD). Food allergy was confirmed in 21/45 (46.6%) of the patients by blinded controlled food challenges. The prevalence of food allergy was estimated to be 4.5% (2.6%-6.34%) at 95% confidence interval (95% CI) in test population (n=470). Sensitisation to food was significantly associated with asthma (p=0.0065) while aeroallergens were strongly related to rhinitis (p<0.01). Conclusions. Food allergy is estimated to be 4.5% in adolescents and adults with asthma, rhinitis or both. Rice, citrus fruits, blackgram and banana are identified as major allergens for inducing allergic symptoms.

Tratamientos biológicos del autismo y dietas de eliminación / Biological treatments of autism, elimination diets: a critical review

This paper presents some critical considerations regarding the growing adoption, by families, of alternative treatments and diets for the treatment of various disorders like autism in children. Research does not seem to support such practices, with the exception of the relationship between timesoral and vaccines, neurological and cardiac disorders. Issues to consider are pointed out in the need to opt for biological treatments, and the need for families and research teams to work together for the purpose of clarifying such procedures.

El objetivo de este trabajo es presentar consideraciones críticas en relación a la creciente adopción, por parte de las familias de niños con trastornos del desarrollo, de tratamientos alternativos y dietas para reducir los síntomas de diversas alteraciones tales como el autismo, SDAH y otros. Las investigaciones no parecen apoyar tales prácticas, a excepción de la creciente evidencia de la relación entre el timerosal de las vacunas y afecciones cardíacas y neurológicas. Se señalan los elementos a tener en cuenta para optar por los tratamientos biológicos y dietas, junto con insistir en la necesidad de mancomunar esfuerzos entre familias y equipos de investigación para desarrollar estudios que clarifiquen los efectos de tales procedimientos.

Milk-induced enterocolitis in monozygotic twin neonates.

Reports of milk protein-induced enterocolitis are increasing, but few describe the condition in twins. Twin Japanese girls developed bloody diarrhea on day 4 and were transferred to the NICU in our hospital. Surgical disorder and infection were initially suspected, but the correct diagnosis was reached after 12 days of hospitalization.