Researchers are exploring options for oral immunotherapy (OIT) for desensitization in the treatment of Immunoglobulin E (IgE)-mediated food allergy, according to a review article in Pediatric Allergy, Immunology, and Pulmonology. 

In the article, investigators review the current state of OIT research for the induction of tolerance in individuals with food allergies. While early trials with OIT appear promising, rigorous, multicenter, randomized, placebo-controlled studies are needed to address remaining questions regarding optimal formulation, dosing, and duration for the induction of tolerance in affected patients.

At present no effective treatment for food allergy exists, and strict dietary avoidance of known food triggers is the only preventive option available.

“Oral immunotherapy for the treatment of IgE-mediated food allergy remains experimental with a number of unanswered questions,” said Editor-in-Chief Mary Cataletto, MD, Professor of Clinical Pediatrics, State University of New York at Stony Brook and practicing pediatric pulmonologist at Winthrop University Hospital. “However, it offers the potential for not only a life-saving but life-changing therapy for individuals with food allergies.”