FOOD ALLERGY DIAGNOSIS

While food hypersensitivity can be a life-threatening problem, its scope is yet to be fully developed. More work is needed to further define its parameters but basic food hypersensitivity has been significantly clarified in the decade of the 80's to become standard practice for most updated allergists. Studies related to inhalation of food antigens remains within the purview of research centers as does other immunologic processes. The diagnosis of food hypersensitivity remains dependent on the medical history with tests like elimination diets, skin testing, and RAST. Double-blind, placebo-controlled, food challenges (DBPCFC) provide the most definitive support for the association between certain symptoms and a specific food.