Does hard water affect the development of eczema? Children living in areas with hard water seem to have higher rates of eczema, raising the possibility that softening water might be an effective preventive measure. A recent study evaluated the effectiveness of home installation of water softeners in preventing the development of eczema in infants with […]
Nucala, Fasenra or Dupixent for Severe Eosinophilic Asthma?
With the advent of new biological medications for severe eosinophilic asthma, patients have improved significantly. Approximately 10% of individuals with asthma have severe disease, and this accounts for most asthma related morbidity and mortality. Previously the mainstay of treatment was inhaled steroids and beta agonists. In patients with severe asthma who have high eosinophils (greater […]
Xolair for idiopathic angioedema
Xolair for idiopathic angioedema may be used as treatment for patients who are suffering from uncontrolled swelling. Currently Xolair is approved for chronic idiopathic urticaria. But the underlying disease mechanism of chronic hives is similar to idiopathic angioedema. Omalizumab (Xolair) for treating Angioedema and Chronic Hives Xolair for Idiopathic Anaphylaxis Angioedema is defined as recurrent […]
When will my child outgrow egg allergy?
When will my child outgrow egg allergy is a common question asked by parents. Previous studies have shown that 80% of egg and milk allergy and 20% of peanut and tree nut allergy resolve by adulthood. Currently allergists are unable to accurately predict whether food allergy will resolve naturally. Presently egg allergy is established by […]
Can you be allergic to water? (Aquagenic Urticaria)
Can you be allergic to water? The answer is yes, although it is very rare. The medical term for it is called, aquagenic urticaria. It is a form of chronic hives that is characterized by the occurrence of itchy wheals after skin contact with water, such as bathing or swimming. The signs and symptoms of […]
Oclacitinib for Atopic Dermatitis (Eczema) in Dogs
Oclacitinib is a potent, safe and rapidly acting anti-itching JAK inhibitor. Oclacitinib was first approved by the US FDA in 2013 to treat eczema and allergic dermatitis in dogs, it is a first generation non-selective JAK inhibitor. The treatment protocol is 0.4 to 0.6 mg/kg administered orally twice a day for 2 weeks, followed by […]
Spice Allergy and Allspice Allergy
Spice allergy and Allspice allergy are both uncommon, and it is estimated that around 2% of food allergy reactions in adults are caused by spices. Spices have the potential for being hidden food allergens. The allergenic proteins in spices are not well characterized and commercial skin testing extracts are not available, thus limiting widespread clinical […]
Lentil Allergy, a common allergen on the rise
Lentil allergy, although not very common in the United States, is an important allergen worldwide. Legumes in general are an important cause of food allergies worldwide. A recent study looked at the characteristics of food food allergy in Turkish children, this study was published in Pediatric Allergy and Immunology. Lentils are in the family of legumes, […]
Viaskin Peanut Patch Safety Results
The Viaskin Peanut Patch is still being studied in clinical trials. Current treatment options for peanut allergy are limited. Peanut allergy is common with increasing prevalence reported. Peanut allergy only resolves in approximately 20% of children, otherwise it remains lifelong. Currently the only FDA approved treatment for peanut allergy is Palforzia. Palforzia (formerly AR101) and […]
Flaxseed Allergy, an emerging allergen
Flaxseed allergy is a rare though emerging allergen. Flaxseeds are consumed and added to cereals and cooked foods. It is also used for their laxative effect and it also has a high content of omega 3 fatty acids. Allergy to flaxseed has been rising partly probably due to its increased consumption over the last few […]