Diagnosis of Food Allergy

Food allergy diagnosis remains challenging. Most standard methods are unable to differentiate sensitization from clinical allergy. Recognizing food allergy is of utmost importance to prevent life-threatening reactions. On the other hand, faulty interpretation of tests leads to overdiagnosis and unnecessary food avoidances. Highly predictive models have been established for major food allergens based on skin-prick testing and food specific immunoglobulin E but are lacking for most other foods. Although many newer diagnostic techniques are improving the accuracy of food allergy diagnostics, an oral food challenge remains the only definitive method of confirming a food allergy.