The Science Journal of the Lander College of Arts and Sciences
Abstract
Peanut allergy is one of the most predominant food allergies. It accounts for majority of the highly severe and fatal allergic reactions to food. Peanut allergy is generally detected early in life and is commonly associated with other atopic disorders such as asthma, eczema, and rhinitis. The prevalence and pervasiveness of peanut allergies is increasing worldwide, and most peanut allergic patients have lifelong sensitivities to peanuts (de Leon et al, 2008). Patients with severe allergies must stringently avoid any contact with peanuts and depend on intramuscular epinephrine (EpiPen) to counteract the reaction caused by intake of peanuts. Much research is dedicated to developing new treatments that may be able to induce tolerance in peanut allergic individuals without adverse side effects. This paper reviews the current understanding of clinical characteristics, pathogenesis, and hypothetical causes for the rise in prevalence of peanut allergies. It also discusses genetic risks and environmental effects of peanut allergy. Furthermore, it presents emergent future therapies and methods to prevent the development of peanut allergies in infants.
Recommended Citation
Sachs, R. (2010). The Peanut Allergy Epidemic. The Science Journal of the Lander College of Arts and Sciences, 4(1). Retrieved from https://touroscholar.touro.edu/sjlcas/vol4/iss1/8
