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 […]
Itepekimab (Anti IL-33) & Brodalumab (Anti IL-25) for Asthma
Itepekimab and Brodalumab are two biologic medications being studied for asthma. Current biologics including Xolair, Nucala, Fasenra and Dupixent target downstream IgE, cytokines IL-5 and IL-4/13, have shown promising effects in terms of reduced asthma exacerbation rates, oral steroids, improved breathing capacity and asthma scores. However approximately 30% of patients receiving biologics do not improve […]
Roflumilast and Tapinarof; Emerging Therapies for Atopic Dermatitis
Roflumilast and Tapinarof are 2 emerging topical therapies that have completed or have ongoing phase 3 clinical trials, with the possibility of approval in 2022. Roflumilast is a more potent PDE4 inhibitor than crisaborloe (Eucrisa) with fewer local reactions. Tapinarof, the first therapeutic arylhydocarbon modulating agent for which the only associated local effect is noninfectious […]
Avocado Allergy Comes in Many Flavors
Avocado allergy is not commonly reported, but it can cause adverse reactions. The avocado (Av) is a fruit that belongs to the Lauraceae family. Hypersensitivity reactions to other fruits are commonly reported, particularly apples, stone fruits and bananas. Avocados have a creamy, nutty flavor that some people describe as almost buttery. Health benefits of avocado […]
Lirentelimab study for Chronic Urticaria (Hives)
Lirentelimab is an anti-sialic acid-binding immunoglobulin-like lectin 8 mAb that selectively inhibits mast cells and depletes eosinophils. It is being studied for chronic urticaria that is often refractory to standard therapy. Stepwise approach to Chronic Urticaria (Chronic Hives) Chronic urticaria is a mast cell disease that causes recurrent itching, hives and angioedema for more than […]
Dupixent for EoE (Eosinophilic Esophagitis); FDA approved and New Dosing
Dupixent for EoE (eosinophilic esophagitis) was recently approved by the FDA. This will be the first drug officially approved for EoE. Eosinophilic Esophagitis is a chronic inflammatory immune disorder of the esophagus where eosinophils (a type of white blood cell) builds up in the esophagus. This can cause symptoms of difficulty swallowing, eating or food […]
What are the best foods for Asthma?
As an asthma doctor, I am often asked what are the best foods for asthma? Before we begin, it should be noted that no foods will help relieve an asthma attack. But your daily diet plays a role in your overall health to keep you healthy and reduce symptoms of asthma. Asthma is a chronic […]