Food allergy in patients suffering from atopic dermatitis – association with concomitant allergic diseases

A few reports demonstrate the relationship between food allergy in atopic dermatitis patients and other allergic diseases and parameters. The objective of this study is to evaluate if some food allergens has the relationship to the occurrence of other atopic diseases and parameters. The following parameters were examined: food allergy to wheat flour, cow milk, egg, peanuts and soy; the occurrence of asthma bronchiale and rhinitis; duration of atopic dermatitis; family history; pollen allergy and onset of atopic dermatitis. The statistical evaluation of the relations among food allergy and monitored parameters was performed. Two hundred and seventy two patients were examined (87 men, 185 women). In general, atopic dermatitis patients with confirmed food allergy suffer significantly more often from rhinitis, asthma bronchiale, persistent eczematic lesions and pollen allergy and have positive data about atopy in their family history. Peanuts, soy and wheat are of great importance.