Peach is the food that is causing more allergies to LTP (Lipid Transfer Protein) in children, followed by walnuts and hazelnuts. This type of food allergy is caused by various proteins contained in vegetables and its prevalence is clearly related to age, with sensitization beginning predominantly in childhood. This has been highlighted by the pediatric allergists participating in the round table Realities and peculiarities of allergy to LTP in childhood of the XLVI SEICAP Congress, which is taking place these days in Oviedo.
The allergens that cause allergy to LTP by the respiratory, oral or skin route are present in both fruits and vegetables, nuts, legumes or cereals. Symptoms of allergy to LTP can range from the mildest, such as skin rashes, to anaphylaxis, one of the most common symptoms in severe cases. In addition, the implication of pollens in sensitization to LTP and its relationship with respiratory symptoms such as rhinitis or asthma is being studied.
At the round table, pediatric allergists stressed that this type of allergy is dominant in Mediterranean Europe, and the sensitization process depends mainly on individual factors as well as geographical factors. In addition, reviews of studies such as the one recently carried out by Italian researchers and published in the European Annals of Allergy and Clinical Immunology journal have attempted to establish whether pollination may also play an important role in the initiation of the LTP sensitization process, concluding that Evidence in this regard is very weak.
This type of food allergy is caused by various proteins contained in vegetables and its sensitization begins predominantly in childhood
Faced with allergy to LTP, pediatric allergists recommend the introduction of food at an early age and a varied diet. “It is also very important in these patients to try to avoid contact through the altered skin barrier, as this facilitates the development of allergies,” explains Dr. Laura Valdesoiro Navarrete, coordinator of the SEICAP Food Allergy Working Group.
“When the allergy already exists, the induction of oral tolerance to food or commercial LTP preparations can be assessed, depending on the characteristics of the patient”, adds the expert.
Immunotherapy for food allergies
SEICAP allergist pediatricians assure that food-specific immunotherapy offers “promising results” in addressing LTP syndrome, both in nuts and in fruits and vegetables. The round table A step “ahead” in allergen-specific immunotherapy has explored the usefulness of this treatment in polyallergic children.
Pediatric allergists stress the need to individualize treatment and after a complete allergological study. “In the diagnosis, the anamnesis is fundamental, which will be complemented with skin tests or determination of specific IgE (to complete extract ± components). The gold standard in diagnosis will be the controlled exposure test, although in many situations it will not be necessary to carry it out”, they explain from the scientific society.
Prevention of food allergies in schools
Given that prevention is one of the most relevant factors when dealing with food allergies, the SEICAP Congress has also reserved a space for the training of families and caregivers at the XII Allergy Health Fair. The coordinator of the Spanish Association of Food and Latex Allergy Patients of the Principality of Asturias, Tamara Martínez García, has taught fundamental measures for the safe schooling of students with allergies.
Among these guidelines it is worth mentioning the education of the child in the management of his illness, the identification of the student with allergies, the fulfillment of the security measures in the dining service, the updating of protocols and the delivery of the child’s medical report to the school. .
Source: SEICAP
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