Bridging Family Medicine, Nursing, and Laboratory Practice in the Diagnosis and Care of Food Allergies
Abstract
Background: Food allergies represent a significant and growing public health challenge with substantial clinical, psychosocial, and economic impacts. The etiology is multifactorial, involving genetic susceptibility, environmental exposures, and immune system dysregulation that leads to a failure of oral tolerance. Diagnosis and management require a coordinated, multidisciplinary approach.
Aim: This article aims to synthesize the comprehensive landscape of food allergies, detailing their pathophysiology, epidemiology, and the essential, integrated roles of family medicine, nursing, and laboratory practice in achieving optimal patient outcomes through precise diagnosis, effective management, and robust patient education.
Methods: The review consolidates evidence on the immunologic mechanisms (IgE-mediated and non-IgE-mediated), diagnostic evaluations (including skin prick testing, serum-specific IgE, and the gold-standard oral food challenge), and management strategies. It emphasizes a collaborative care model spanning primary care, specialized nursing, and diagnostic laboratories.
Results: Effective management hinges on strict dietary avoidance, emergency preparedness with epinephrine, and ongoing patient education. Prognosis varies, with many childhood allergies (e.g., milk, egg) often being outgrown, while others (e.g., peanut, shellfish) typically persist. Emerging treatments like immunotherapy and biologics (e.g., omalizumab) offer promise for desensitization. Complications range from acute anaphylaxis to chronic nutritional and psychosocial burdens.
Conclusion: An interprofessional team model is critical for improving the safety and quality of life for individuals with food allergies. This model integrates prevention, accurate diagnosis, personalized management, and continuous education to navigate the complexities of the condition.
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Copyright (c) 2025 Asaad Ali Mohammed Habbash, Meshari Zayed Almutairi, Fahad Mousa Wasili, Manal Saud Alharbi , Majed Abdulrahman Alrashidi, Mansour Butayhan Al Mabdi, Ali Ahmed Alomari Alzhrani, Yahya Fathe Adawie, Mashael Musnad Odhayb Alanazi, Abrar Mohammed Alanzl
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